The least populated states tend to have the most DUIs
In California, we like to have a good time — and hopefully, if that good time involves alcohol, we think ahead and plan a ride or to stay overnight. Yet as experienced Riverside DUI defense attorneys, we know that sometimes, you might get behind the wheel of a car after having a drink or two. If you are pulled over after drinking and driving, you could be charged with a DUI, which brings with it a whole host of consequences — including a substantial hit on your insurance premiums.
One insurance company, Insurify, recently released a report that took a hard look at the numbers involving drunk driving in the United States. Using questionnaire information gathered over 1.6 million car insurance shoppers, excessive drinking and traffic fatality information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and population information from the United States Census Bureau, Insurify came up with a list of the most dangerous states for DUIs. The good news is that California didn’t make the top ten. The bad news is that Californians are getting DUIs far too often. According to the Insurify report, at least 2.5% of Californians report having a DUI — which puts California just out of the top ten (Colorado is number 10 at 3.13%).
The numbers reported by Insurify are sobering. On average, 2.15 percent of drivers reported a prior DUI offense. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 18 percent of Americans drink excessively on a regular basis. When Americans are regularly drinking to excess, it is little wonder that some of them then drive after consuming too much alcohol.
There is a strong correlation between drunk driving and car accident fatalities and serious injuries. That is why the California Legislature has imposed such harsh penalties on anyone who is convicted of or pleads guilty to driving under the influence in California. According to a Riverside DUI defense attorney, a first-time DUI offense can carry with it substantial fines, probation and/or jail time, fees, community service, mandatory alcohol education classes, and a license suspension. In addition, you will be required to report the fact of your DUI to your insurance company, and may face other repercussions as a result, such as increased insurance premiums.
At the Chambers Law Firm, we strongly believe that everyone deserves a top-notch defense to a DUI charge. That is why we are dedicated to providing aggressive legal representation to each of our clients. We work hard to secure your rights and your freedom. Contact our office today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to learn more or to schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled Riverside DUI defense attorney.
