With everyone gearing up for a night of leprechaunish fun and drinking this St. Patrick’s Day, a new study finds that South Carolina is the 2nd in the Nation for DUI related fatalities.
To combat DUI related accidents and fatalities, local and state police are planning to set up check points throughout the state to catch those who choose to drink and drive tonight.
In the past, these types of campaigns by state and local police have continually lowered alcohol related fatalities in the state. DUI fatalities were down last year, as compared to 2008. In fact, the S.C. Highway Patrol has reported that 2009 was the “safest year since 1995.”
S.C. Highway Patrol also estimates that a DUI first-time offender was spend nearly $10,000, which includes fines, attorney’s fees, court costs, and insurance increases. Furthermore, South Carolina stricter DUI laws went into effect a year ago on February 10, 2009. Some of the changes included:
- Tougher penalties based on higher levels of intoxication at time of arrest.
- Tougher penalties for subsequent offenses.
- The time for licence suspension was increased to six months for refusing a breath-test.
- All first-time offenders must complete an alcohol and drug treatment program.
In 2008, about 50% of all traffic fatalities were alcohol realted. So this St. Patrick’s Day, everyone have fun, but be safe and responsibile. Remember to always have a Designated Driver.
Learn more about DUI laws and accidents in South Carolina.
Read about South Carolina’s new DUI laws.
Read what can happen if you don’t stop for Law Enforcement Vehicles.
Get The South Carolina Accident Book for FREE.
Contact the Shelly Leeke Law Firm for a FREE Consultation.
