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September 20, 2019

Driving under the influence is a real problem. Drunk drivers not only endangering themselves but also risking the lives of other people who are out on the road.

As if that isn’t enough, more and more people who are convicted of their first offense DUI are getting caught over and over. In fact, one woman from Nevada was arrested for two DUIs in ten hours!

So, how does this happen?

Why Are There So Many Repeat DUI Offenders?

For repeat offenders to get caught, three things have to happen. These include:

  • The person is arrested and charged for a first time DUI.
  • The person chooses to drive drunk again.
  • The person is then arrested and charged with a subsequent DUI offense.

So what problems could a repeat offender be dealing with?

Studies have shown, time and again, that people who are repeat DUI offenders often have a serious problem they need to deal with. Most people may learn their lesson the first time. They won’t find themselves behind the wheel once they have a DUI conviction. However, some people face ongoing struggles:

  • Psychiatric problems: According to PubMed.gov, many repeat offenders are dealing with problems such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and much more.
  • Problems with alcohol: According to Alcohol Addiction Center, alcoholics, and those who are dependent on alcohol may become repeat offenders simply because they can’t live successfully as a sober person. They constantly have a blood alcohol level, so anytime they are pulled over, they are going to be facing another DUI charge beyond even a third offense DUI.

What can we do about it?

There are many things we can do to ensure safety on the road. Here are some things to consider:

  • Make sure everyone gets the help they need. This includes treatment programs for alcoholics and those who are dependent on alcohol, along with psychiatric care for those who need it. Too many people see their problems as an embarrassment instead of getting the help they need.
  • Mandate ignition interlocks for anyone who has been convicted of a DUI. This will stop people who have been drinking from driving and receiving a second offense DUI or third offense DUI. Drivers will have to blow into the mouthpiece connected to their interlock device if they want their vehicle to start.
  • Instigate harsher punishments for repeat offenders. Repeat DUI offenders are going to have to realize it is wrong to get behind the wheel when they aren’t in any shape to drive. Fines alone aren’t going to teach them. After facing criminal charges or jail time, repeat offenders may recognize they need to change their ways.

Why is an ignition interlock system so powerful?

Mandating ignition interlocks for those who have been convicted of a first offense DUI will reduce the threat of those drivers getting behind the wheel of their car again for a second offense DUI or third offense DUI. They will have to be completely sober if they want their vehicle to start. If you have been drinking, you aren’t going to be going anywhere.

Because of this, more and more states are looking for ways to mandate these ignition interlocks. They want to make the roads as safe as possible for other drivers. However, this alone won’t stop drivers from getting behind the wheel when they shouldn’t. They also need to deal with their issues. They need to get help for their alcohol dependence or their psychiatric issues if they want to make the right choices. If they see a therapist or go to rehabilitation, maybe, it could change their life!

Contact us to learn more about our ignition interlock devices (IID) so you can continue to drive after your DUI conviction.

 

*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard Interlock did not create nor develop and does not own any such third-party websites. RoadGuard Interlock does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in any such third-party website links. RoadGuard Interlock is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction, or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice.