Drinking and driving is a serious criminal offense carrying consequences from loss of your license to jail time. A DUI lawyer is crucial when facing such charges. This hasn’t always been the case, however. It took decades for a strong body of DUI law to develop. Find out how this legislation came to be in the sections below. 

The Development of DUI Law

Up until 1980, an estimated 25,000 people died in drunk driving crashes in the United States every year. Today, that number is about 10,000. DUI lawyers, activists, and legislators are to thank for this change.

New York was the first jurisdiction to adopt DUI legislation in the country, all the way back in 1910. Other states soon followed. The problem with these laws, however, was that they did not have a definition of “intoxication.”

The development of the so-called “Drunkometer”—a sort of rudimentary breathalyzer—changed this in 1936. Using this tool, a blood alcohol content of .15 was suggested as a standard measure of intoxication. The Breathalyzer was invented in 1953, allowing for more accurate results.

Enforcement After the 1970s 

Even with legislation in place, enforcement of DUI law was not strict. Penalties were initially not as harsh as they are today, and it was more acceptable culturally to get behind the wheel when drunk than it is now.

This changed largely thanks to the efforts of non-profits like Remove Intoxicated Drivers, RID, and MADD—Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Established in 1977 and 1980 respectively, these groups spread awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving.

With a push from the public, more stringent rules spread across the country. In 2000, a bill was passed requiring all states to lower the legal blood alcohol content to .08 percent. This norm holds today, with the acceptable percentage lower for commercial drivers and those who are underage.

Today a drinking-and-driving conviction means serious penalties—don’t leave your defense to an inexperienced DUI lawyer. Michael A. Newland Law Office of Hamilton, OH, brings more than 25 years of experience to the table. This attorney navigates the complexities of the legal system for you with confidence. Whether you need a criminal attorney or guidance on how to make a will, you can expect attentive services. Find out more about his experience online. For an appointment with the DUI lawyer, call (513) 887-9595.