New DUI Law Passed in Arizona

One of the toughest DUI laws in the United States to date is about to become effective in Arizona. The new law will require an ignition-interlock device to be put in the cars of those who have been convicted on charges of driving under the influence.

Fines are also going to increase and a minimum of 45 days in jail will be required in the more extreme cases.

Who Will the New Law Effect?

First time DUI offenders will reportedly be the most affected by the new law, as well as those who are driving with a blood-alcohol concentration of .20, which is more than double the legal limit of 0.08 percent.

Arizona is the the second state to adopt such strict DUI laws.

DUI drivers in New Mexico have had to endure the harsh consequences for over two years and Arizona state officials hope the crackdown will decrease the amount of drunk driving and DUI related fatalities that occur in Arizona yearly. The state is reported as having the sixth-highest number of alcohol related fatalities in the nation.

New Law Gets Negative Responses

DUI attorneys claim that the severe penalties will increase the court caseloads and be an extreme “inconvenience” for those arrested for the first time.

Arizona State University students are also giving negative feedback about the law.

Rep. David Schapira says that these negative responses are to be expected and the penalties were made to be strong deterrents.

(Source: Arizona Central)

Have you or someone you know been convicted of a DUI? If so, please contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney who will evaluate your case and enable you to receive the legal advice and guidance you need and deserve.