Controversial DUI Laws in Connecticut

Connecticut's extreme law for first time DUI offenders has become a controversy for many drivers that are charged with DUI for the first time. Many are claiming that the penalties for first-time offenders are too harsh and are not addressing the main cause of Connecticut’s DUI problem.

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Connecticut drunk driving problem addressed

American Beverage Institute spokeswoman - Sarah Longwell said, “By mandating breathalyzers for first time offenders, regardless of their BAC level, this proposal ignores the root cause of today’s drunk driving problem—hard core alcohol abusers,”

Many supporters claim that this would lead to a decrease in alcohol-related incidents. What the initiative failed to target however, is the actual drunk driving problem that is facing Connecticut.

According to reports, the American Beverage Institute (ABI) denounced ignition interlock bills SB151, SB691, and SB732 which are currently being considered by the Transportation and Judiciary Committees. These bills would mandate the installation of breathalyzers in the cars of low-BAC (blood alcohol concentration) first-time offenders.

Connecticut DUI fatalities

Information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that the average blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of a drunk driver in a deadly car crash is 0.18%, which is twice the legal drinking limit. A National Highway Traffic Safety administrator has said that today’s problem is “by far and away” made up of “those who have alcohol use disorders.”

Breathalyzer for first time DUI offenders

The bills pending in Connecticut fail to address the most serious DUI offenders and instead will require first-time DUI offenders to install ignition interlock devices in their cars.

Connecticut DUI limit set at 0.08 BAC

Longwell also stated that, “With Connecticut’s drunk driving limit set at .08 BAC, these bills would mandate that drivers install a breathalyzer in their car for behavior that, according to numerous studies, impairs them less than driving while talking on a hands-free cell phone. A 120 pound woman can reach the .08 BAC level by having two glasses of wine in two hours. Should she receive the same punishment as someone with a .18 BAC level or multiple offenses?"

Beat the failing system or take the harsh punishment?

Find a loop hole in Connecticut DUI law and you just might get your case dismissed. Hire a qualified Connecticut DUI defense attorney to protect your rights. Some loop holes that can have your case dismissed are listed below:

• Weaving inside the lanes is not illegal in Connecticut.
• A driver cannot be pulled over in Connecticut unless the police officer has a valid reason.
• Breath test may be inaccurate.
• Contradicting in-squad video recording.
• Failure to read your Miranda warnings
• Arresting officer prior disciplinary record can be used to attack the officer’s credibility.