In an effort to reduce drunk driving six states, Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Nebraska, Washington and South Carolina, will start the year by requiring persons who have been convicted of drunk driving to install ignition interlock systems. These systems, once installed, will prevent a car from starting until the drivers blow into the alcohol detectors to prove they are sober.
There are many states that have ignition interlocks available as a possible penalty for repeat DUI offenders but starting this week Alaska, Colorado, Illinois, Nebraska and Washington will require the device for all first time drunk driving convictions. South Carolina began requiring them for repeat offenders the last week of December
The cost for the device is approximately $80 to install, $80 per month to rent and a $30 per month state fee. One of the flaws in this system is that the driver could have someone else blow into the system but if they are caught trying to circumvent they could go to jail.
One of the harshest critics of this program is the American beverage institute. They agree with the program for repeat offenders and persons arrested with very high blood alcohol levels but fear that this program will create a country where people will no longer be able to have a beer at a ball game or a glass of wine with dinner. Concern should also be on excessive speed and distracted drivers for causes of
deadly accidents.
In Kentucky the judges have the option of installing these devices for repeat offenders. For more information on Kentucky DUI laws go to
http://dui.findlaw.com/dui/state-dui-law/kentucky-dui-law.html.
The bottom line is if you are impaired in any way you should not drive. If you have to perform a task that will take your attention away from driving you need to pull over. Operate your vehicle at a safe speed and in control. These are what I see as the best preventions. For more information on Louisville, Kentucky injury attorney Mike Schafer go to
www.mikeschaferlaw.com.
Category: General
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