New Missouri Law Cracks Down on Drunk Drivers
Governor Jay Nixon recently signed into law a bill that stiffens the penalties for drunk drivers in Missouri. According to a Missourinet report, the new law focuses on repeat offenders and drivers with high blood alcohol levels. These drivers, if convicted, must spend additional time in jail. The bill also sends repeat offender's cases to the circuit court, instead of allowing them to be heard in the more lenient municipal courts.
In addition to cracking down on repeat offenders, the bill requires law enforcement agencies and courts to keep detailed records of drunk driving arrests and convictions. These agencies are also required to report their drunk-driving data. Courts have also been given the power to create special “DWI dockets” solely to handle drunk-driving cases. Prosecutors have also been given more powers to present evidence of previous Missouri DWI convictions when trying the cases of repeat offenders.
The bill passed the Missouri House and Senate unanimously. It represents a high priority for the governor, who convened a number of law enforcement professionals in a summit last November to address the dangers of drunk driving.
“The bottom line is that Missouri's roadways will be safer,” Nixon said about the new law.
The safety of drivers on roads throughout America is endangered every day by drunk drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 31.6% of fatal traffic accidents in 2008 were caused by a driver with a blood alcohol content above the legal limit.
Drunk drivers can cause Missouri vehicle accidents that bring about severe injuries and even death. When motorists drive under the influence, he or she can be held legally accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, please contact the skilled St. Louis drunk driving accident attorneys at Page Law. Our experienced legal team will examine the details surrounding your accident and fight to help you hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. Call Page Law today at (314) 322-8515 for a free and confidential consultation.
