A couple of weeks ago a tragic car crash rocked locals in the Orlando area. When the Florida Highway Patrol responded to the fatal four-car crash they were quick to discover the reason behind this accident.
One of the drivers had been drinking heavily. The driver was arrested on DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide. This driver will not only go to jail, but will also have to live the rest of his life knowing his actions took a human life.
We hear the scary statistics all the time, but what can be done legally to prevent drunk driving? An answer may be on the way.
Judges have found a way to force drunken drivers to get clean and sober by making them have their breath tested twice a day instead of just blowing into machines that keep their cars from starting. The proposal, which has been approved by a House committee, would allow judges to place repeat DUI offenders into a new program, rather than having ignition interlock devices installed on their vehicles.
Why the change? Judges would have more power, especially when it comes to first-time offenders. This would require drivers to submit twice-daily breath tests, as well as random urinalysis and possibly continuous monitoring devices, like an ankle bracelet. Supporters of this program say that they have seen significant reductions in drunken driving and other alcohol or drug related offenses such as domestic violence.
I suppose any new method is worth a look when it comes to saving lives, but we have also seen errors during DUI stops. With everything from an inaccurate Breathalyzer reading to officers improperly conducting a field sobriety test.
A DUI charge isn’t something to shrug off. You could lose your driving privileges, face large fines and probation, and even receive jail time. When your freedom and driving future is on the line, you want a defense attorney who has handled numerous DUI cases successfully.
