Starting January 1, 2013
As the New Year kicks off, partygoers busted for DUI may find that they have a few more options for places they are allowed to drive while using a limited permit and a slight reduction on their "hard suspension" times.
The Facts About The Law:
First time offenders over the age of 21 or "first in five years" offenders will be eligible for hardship permits that extend the types of locations they are allowed to drive.
As the law stated before Jan. 1, these limited permits allowed certain DUI offenders the ability to drive to school, work, doctors offices, support group meetings and DUI courses.
This new broadened license allows them to drive to their probation officer, attend court, and do work for community service.
Furthermore, drivers on this new expanded permit will be allowed to drive their family members who do not have a drivers license to school, work and/or to receive medical services and aid.
Beginning on Jan. 1, if a DUI offender has been arrested twice in the last 5 years, they will automatically serve a 120 day hard suspension for driving, and then will be allowed to apply for an ignition interlock limited permit.
Before receiving their limited permit, they must show the following:
1. Certificate of eligibility for an ignition interlock limited driving permit from the court that sentenced the person
2. Clinical evaluation completion and enrollment in substance abuse program approved by the Department of Human Services
3. Completion of a DUI Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction program
4. Installation of an ignition interlock device in any vehicle that shall be used by the DUI offender
Were you hurt by a drunk driver?
While these new laws could potentially benefit drunk drivers, our law offices actively fight to protect those who may have been hurt in a drunk driver accident.
Gary Martin Hays & Associates actively supports Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), encouraging the Georgia legislature to take a tough stance against drinking and driving.
It is important to maintain your right to full compensation from all sources by filing certain claims and notices in a timely manner. It is also imperative that a thorough investigation be undertaken as soon as possible to fully document the contributing factors.
The drunk driver put you in a tough position. Our experience can help you recover. Call today.
Every drunk driver accident victim has the right to see that the law is applied fairly to all, not just to big corporations and insurance companies. At Gary Martin Hays & Associates, we provide aggressive legal representation for personal injury victims. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation: 1-800-898-HAYS.