New OVI/DUI Law

Annie’s Law is to take effect 4/6/2017

After a drunk driver caused the death of Annie Rooney, family, friends, and Law Makers rallied behind the cause of ending drunk driving related deaths. It is a widespread problem that has needed to be addressed. The amount of deaths caused by drunk driving has been on a steady rise in the entire country, and many other states have already implemented similar laws.

Annie’s Law governs those that are a first-time OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) offender. Right now as it stands, a first-time OVI offender will have their license suspended for a year or more, will have required jail time and have to pay over $1000 in fees. What Annie’s Law has done is allow a Judge to force a first-time OVI offender to have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle. The driver will be required to pass the ignition interlock device in order for the vehicle to start. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is very intelligent and can detect if it is another person conducting the test. If a Judge requires a person to have a device installed the Judge can forgo the mandatory suspension. The device is not only required to start the vehicle, it will also require a test to be conducted periodically.

Drunk driving deaths are 100% preventable. Other states that have already implemented similar laws have seen a SIGNIFICANT decrease in deaths caused by drunk drivers. This is a step in the right direction. This type of change is what we need to see in order to make the roads a safer place for everyone. It is a choice that is made, sadly to many people make the wrong one. Since drunk driving deaths are 100% preventable then we should not rest until the number of deaths caused by drunk drivers reached zero.

Buckle up, drive safe and NEVER drink and drive.