California Considers New Penalties for Repeat DUI Offenders
With some California residents racking up as many as nine DUI charges, the California legislature is considering legislation to crack down on repeat offenders.

June 05, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Many states have revisited their laws concerning DUI offenses over the last couple of years; much of the legislation introduced has been focused on doing something about repeat offenders. With some California residents racking up as many as nine DUI charges, the California legislature is considering legislation to crack down on repeat offenders.

State lawmakers are currently considering a bill that would allow the revocation of the driver's licenses of those who incur three DUIs. California Assembly Bill 1601 would also make it more difficult for repeat offenders to have their licenses reinstated once revoked. Introduced by Assemblyman Jerry Hill (D-San Mateo) in December, AB 1601 was scheduled for an initial hearing on March 23.

AB 1601 also would repeal the state law that "refreshes" a driver's license every 10 years. Under current law, if a California resident received a DUI in 2009, for example, a second DUI in 2020 would be treated as a first offense.

Another provision in AB 1601 would give judges far more power over repeat DUI offenders, allowing them to take away licenses after just three convictions. This might act as a deterrent for motorists who have consistently gotten behind the wheel while intoxicated, and may prevent future accidents from occurring. Critics say it would only lead to more unlicensed drivers being involved in alcohol-related accidents.

According to the San Jose Mercury News, drivers convicted of a DUI in California can currently only have their driver's licenses suspended if they injure or kill someone during the commission of their offense. Assemblyman Hill says he is concerned by this wait-and-see mentality and wishes to prevent injurious accidents when possible.

There were more than 310,000 California residents with three or more DUI convictions as of 2008, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That same year, more than 1,000 were killed in California as a result of drunk drivers and another 28,000 were injured.

DUI charges require immediate intervention from a criminal defense attorney who knows how to protect your rights and negotiate the best possible result according to the facts and applicable law. If you have been charged with drinking and driving, don't delay. Contact an attorney today to schedule a consultation.

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