Federal Report on DUI Statistics Highlights Impaired Driving in US
As a DWI defense lawyer, clients accused of drunk driving charges are represented on a daily basis. Each of these defendants face great consequences if convicted, including excessive fines and possible incarceration. Even though these cases are commonly seen in DUI law firms, a recently published article USA Today presented drunk driving statistics that would alarm even the best DUI lawyer. Within the past year, one in eight drivers aged 16 and older operated a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, while over four percent of Americans drove while under the influence of illegal drugs.
Using DUI statistics presented by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, the report estimate that DUI statistics for 2006-2009 fell to 13.2%, when compared with 2002-2005. Additionally, the number of Americans who operated a vehicle while under the influence of illegal drugs also fell, from 4.8% to 4.3%.
Although we can certainly applaud the fact that more motorists are driving sober, the numbers behind these percentages are still alarmingly high. The National Survey on Drug Use in health estimated that 30.6 million people drove drunk in the United States within the last year. The federal report also presented alarming information about drugged driving, stating that approximately 10.1 million Americans operated a car while under the influence of illegal drugs in 2010.
While arrest and conviction statistics were not presented in the report, one does not need to be a top DUI lawyer to know that driving drunk or while on illicit drugs can carry significant consequences. In addition high fines and a suspension of your driving privileges, a convicted drunk driver may also face time behind bars as well. If charged with a drunk driving in Michigan, it is important to contact skilled and knowledgeable DWI defense attorneys for assistance. As navigating the legal process can be difficult and complex, DUI defense lawyers can provide the legal advice and representation needed to make sure that the charges against you do not change your life forever.
About the Author
Since 1998, the DWI defense lawyers at Kronzek & Cronkright have provided the best legal advice and legal representation for people accused of drunk driving in Michigan.
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