Just a few years ago, Michigan legislators introduced a new law that would differentiate drunk drivers between those who are drunk and those who are super drunk. The difference between the two is that those who are the traditional standard of drunk have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 to 0.16 percent. Super drunk drivers are first-time offenders who have a BAC of .17 percent or above. Drunk driving offenders considered to be super drunk could suffer from much higher penalties and fines than standard drunk drivers.

Drivers who are convicted under the “Super Drunk” law could experience compromised driving privileges, time in jail, hefty fines and more. That’s not to mention other problems that could follow a conviction such as employment issues and relationship woes.

According to the Michigan State Police, the costs and consequences of a standard drunk driving conviction compared with a Super Drunk are as follows:

With a BAC of below .17 and a first of offense, offenders could be subject to $500 in fines, 93 days in jail, 360 hours of community service, 180 days license suspension, and 6 points on a driver’s license. With a BAC of .17 or higher, “Super Drunk” drivers could be subject to $700 in fines, 180 days in jail, 360 hours of community service, one year license suspension, 6 points on a driver’s license, mandatory completion of an alcohol treatment program, and a properly installed ignition interlock device on their vehicle.

As you can see, some of the Super Drunk penalties are up to two times as severe as standard drunk driving penalties are.

A drunk driving conviction is a very serious matter that could results in very serious consequences. This is why it is important to have an experienced attorney by your side who can defend you in such an unsettling situation. With the help of one of Debolski, Debolski, & O’Connor’s affordable criminal defense attorneys, your chance of having a reduced or eliminated charge could be increased significantly.

Please contact the Debolski, Debolski, & O’Connor law firm at (734) 261-7500 for a free consultation.