Colorado lawmakers are one step closer to increasing the penalties for repeat DUI offenders after the House Judiciary Committee unanimously advanced HB 1043. Under the current set of DUI laws, repeat offenders face only misdemeanor charges, even after multiple convictions. If HB 1043 passes into law, serial drunk drivers could be convicted of a felony after their fourth drunk driving charge, or after their third charge if the third incident has some sort of aggravating factor, such as fleeing the scene or having a child in the vehicle.
In Colorado, people convicted of misdemeanors face fines and up to a year of jail time instead of prison time. It is one of five states that deal with repeat DUIs in this way.
Is the New Law Simply Addressing the Symptoms and Not the Causes?
The bill has bipartisan support, with both Republican lawmakers pushing for increased penalties and Democratic Governor John Hickenlooper calling for the bill’s passing. Despite the support, however, detractors of the bill believe that punishment only treats the symptoms of the problem, not the cause. They assert that increasing penalties will not necessarily deter drunk drivers.
Harsher penalties do not necessarily prevent people from getting behind the wheel in the first place. Addressing the causes of DUI could go a long way in reducing the rate of drunk driving arrests. Better public transportation and access to affordable alternatives, for example, can help keep residents safe and legal.
Denver ranks among the nation’s top cities for offering people alternatives to driving. Robust digital apps for public transit routes and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are great options for people who like to go out on a night on the town.
In an upcoming post, our DUI attorneys will offer more digital resources for people to plan their outings while avoiding the potential for DUI.Follow us on Facebookto get see our updates and tips for those going out in downtown Denver!
Thomas Law Firm – DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys
Source: http://www.9news.com/story/news/crime/2015/02/05/felony-dui-colorado/22932015/
Did You Know?: About one-third of all drivers arrested or convicted of drunk driving are repeat offenders. (NHTSA) Will HB 1043 Curb Repeat Drunk Drivers?
Colorado lawmakers are making strides toward increasing penalties for repeat DUI (Driving Under the Influence) offenders to address a persistent issue. The House Judiciary Committee recently advanced HB 1043, a bill aimed at imposing more severe consequences on individuals with a history of DUI convictions. Currently, repeat DUI offenders in Colorado face only misdemeanor charges, even after multiple convictions. However, if HB 1043 becomes law, habitual drunk drivers could be charged with a felony after their fourth DUI offense or after their third offense if certain aggravating factors are present, such as fleeing the scene of an accident or having a child in the vehicle.
This legislative move addresses a significant concern in Colorado’s DUI laws, as it is one of only five states that deal with repeat DUI offenses by imposing misdemeanor charges. The proposed change has garnered bipartisan support, with both Republican lawmakers advocating for increased penalties and Democratic Governor John Hickenlooper expressing his endorsement of the bill. However, some critics argue that focusing solely on punishment may not effectively address the root causes of DUI incidents.
It is essential to recognize that while stricter penalties can serve as a deterrent, they may not be sufficient in preventing drunk driving altogether. A more comprehensive approach to reducing DUI incidents should involve addressing the underlying causes and providing alternatives to individuals who might otherwise choose to drive under the influence.
One key aspect of addressing the causes of DUI is improving transportation options and accessibility. Enhancing public transportation and offering affordable alternatives can play a vital role in reducing the incidence of drunk driving. In this regard, Denver has emerged as one of the nation’s leading cities in providing alternatives to driving after consuming alcohol. The city offers robust digital apps that provide public transit information and convenient ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, making it easier for people to avoid driving while impaired.
These digital resources and transportation alternatives empower individuals to plan their outings while minimizing the risk of DUI. By providing practical and accessible options for getting home safely after a night out, Denver sets an example for other cities in addressing the issue of drunk driving.
As advocates for responsible and safe behavior, the DUI attorneys at Thomas & Ahnell, LLC, are committed to helping individuals make informed choices regarding avoiding DUI incidents. They understand the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest digital resources and tips for planning safe outings in downtown Denver. By following their Facebook page, individuals can access valuable updates and insights to help them make responsible choices and reduce the risk of DUI.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Colorado’s efforts to increase penalties for repeat DUI offenders represent a step towards addressing a pressing issue. While harsher penalties can serve as a deterrent, it is essential to recognize that punishment alone may not fully address the root causes of drunk driving. Providing better transportation options and access to affordable alternatives is equally crucial in promoting responsible behavior and reducing the incidence of DUI. Denver’s innovative approach to offering digital resources and convenient ride-sharing services exemplifies how cities can contribute to safer communities by empowering individuals to make responsible choices. Thomas & Ahnell, LLC, continues to support individuals in making informed decisions and staying safe when enjoying their time in downtown Denver.
Thomas Law Firm – DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys
Source: http://www.9news.com/story/news/crime/2015/02/05/felony-dui-colorado/22932015/
Did You Know?: About one-third of all drivers arrested or convicted of drunk driving are repeat offenders. (NHTSA)
Do you have further questions or concerns? Call us or contact the attorneys at Thomas & Ahnell, LLC, and we will be happy to help.