As an attempt to delay the introduction of stricter new drink driving laws in Utah did not get sufficient support amongst lawmakers, it looks likely that the blood-alcohol content limit will be reduced from 0.08 to 0.05 by the end of 2018. Rep. Karen Kwan, D-Murray, sponsored House Bill 345, which initially proposed delaying these changes by four years, before reducing the timescale to add another one year to the effective date. However, even moderating the terms of the Bill by proposing to change the drunken driving limit in 2019 rather than 2018, wasn’t enough to get Kwan the support she needed from fellow lawmakers.
Changes to DUI, and Why a Delay Was Proposed
After House Bill 345 was voted down on February 28, some of the lawmakers who were already opposed to the delay stated that they were even more likely to vote against it in future Bills, after hearing Kwan’s reasoning for wanting to postpone the introduction of a reduced blood-alcohol limit. The reasons cited by Kwan included allowing bars, restaurants, tourism, and law enforcement more time to study the consequences of lowering the level of alcohol which would lead to a DUI offense. This isn’t the first time a delay has been voted out by lawmakers after an attempt by Salt Lake City’s Senator Jim Dabakis to postpone the reduction until at least three other states had implemented similarly strict legislation was rejected.
At the time of writing, Utah will be the first U.S State to enforce stricter drunken driving laws, a move which is sure to be welcomed by anyone who has been affected by a DUI.
Drunken Driving a Major Cause of Salt Lake City Car Accidents
Did you know that driving under the influence of alcohol is one of the most common causes of Salt Lake City? Between 2012 and 2016, speeding was the number one reason for car accidents, accounting for 40 of all fatal incidents, with other commonly cited catalysts including:
- Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Drivers with little experience
- Distracted drivers, including those texting, or bending to pick an item up from the floor of their vehicle
- Drivers not yielding at a crosswalk
- Commercial drivers losing control of their trucks
A Salt Lake City car accident which happens for any of these reasons can result in serious injury, or even death, bringing with them exorbitant medical bills, emotional distress, loss of future earnings, and perhaps even the loss of a loved one.
Seek Advice from a Salt Lake City Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in car accident, working with a Salt Lake City car accident attorney from The Jardine Law Offices P.C. can go a long way towards putting your mind at ease. With an excellent attorney from an esteemed law firm fighting by your side, you will maximize your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve.
To consult with a Salt Lake City car accident attorney, call The Jardine Law Offices P.C. today on 801-350-3506 to arrange a free case evaluation.