Michigan Super Drunk Law

Michigan Super Drunk Law
As of October 31, 2010, Michigan drivers who are caught operating a vehicle with an extremely high blood alcohol content (BAC) face enhanced penalties under the Michigan Super Drunk Law. As a result, it is especially important for these individuals to obtain legal representation immediately in order to avoid the stiff penalties associated with a super drunk DUI conviction.

Across the United States, drivers are required to follow the national BAC limit of 0.08%, and any person who violates this law can be arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Michigan state law, however, takes the law a step further by imposing harsher penalties on “super drunk” drivers who have a BAC well above this limit.

State law defines “super drunk” as a blood alcohol content of 0.17% or more. If convicted, the penalties for a first high-BAC offense include a one-year license suspension, mandatory alcohol rehabilitation, and up to 180 days in jail. In addition, the state’s new law also requires convicted super drunk offenders to have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicles (a device that requires a driver to successfully pass a breath test in order to operate his or her vehicle).

What’s more, along with the humiliation of losing your driving privileges and dealing with the stigma attached to drunk drivers, a Super Drunk DUI conviction can have a devastating impact on your budget as well. Along with a court-imposed fine of $200 to $700, you must pay to enroll in an alcohol rehabilitation program, as well as any installation and maintenance fees associated with your ignition interlock device. And don’t forget about the effect a DUI conviction can have on your auto insurance rates—at the very least, you can expect to pay two to three times more than you do now and, in some cases, you may be unable to obtain coverage at all.

Fortunately, as one of the top DUI defense attorneys in the state, Patrick Barone has helped many drivers avoid many—if not all—of the penalties associated with a Super Drunk DUI offense. From his advanced knowledge of BAC testing to his familiarity with the latest DUI defense strategies, count on Mr. Barone to provide the skilled representation you need on your side when you are facing a Michigan DUI conviction.

Remember, with all of the penalties associated with the Michigan Super Drunk Law, the expenses of a conviction can really add up. With fines, alcohol treatment, the cost of public transportation (since you will be unable to drive for a while), and everything else, the cost of hiring an attorney is often less than what a conviction can cost you in the long run. What’s more, once you consider the fact that an experienced DUI defense attorney can substantially increase your chances of reducing or avoiding a conviction, obtaining legal representation just may be the best investment you’ve ever made.

Put one of the state’s most successful DUI defense firms to work for you. Contact the Barone Defense Firm today to discuss the best defense strategies for your case.