Michigan adopts new "Super Drunk" Law

Just when you thought the drunk driving laws in Michigan were as tough as they could get, the State of Michigan takes drunk driving law to another level. A new "super drunk" law will be effective October 31st. As most of you probably know, the blood alcohol content threshold in Michigan is .08. The strange thing about the new law is it only applies to first time offenders who test at .17 or above. This law doesn't apply to repeat defenders or those who are facing a felony because the accident caused death or major damage. It seems to me that the repeat offenders and drivers who caused death or injury should be the target of the new law.

So what are the penalties that go along with the "super drunk" law you ask? Fines will end up costing drivers somewhere between $8,000 to $10,000 when all is said and done. Are you serious? $10,000 is a large sum of money for anybody, I don't care who you are. This kind of money can ruin lives and/or families over a first offense. Driver responsibility fees were supposed to be enough to deter drunk driving, but it's been rather ineffective. This just seems like an absurdly high fee amount. Alcohol treatment is mandatory and the possible jail time is doubled. Yet another stipulation requires a breathalyzer be installed into the car's ignition after the initial 45 days of no driving period has ended.

Let me set this clear, I don't agree with drunk driving. I don't think anyone wants there to be drunk drivers out there. The real question is will this new "super drunk" law be effective? Even Mike Tomich, GR assistant City Attorney calls the law “a useful tool for public safety, but is not certain the provisions will change behavior overall." I just hope the State realizes in time this provision will be ineffective and financially unfair.

Do you need a drunk driving lawyer in Michigan? Let experienced trial attorney David M. Clark fight for your rights. Call the Clark Law Office today @ 517-347-6900 for a free consultation today!