Laura's Law: North Carolina Cracks Down on Repeat DWI Offenders

After nearly a year of debate, North Carolina has increased its penalties for repeat driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenders. The changes, triggered by the 2010 death of teenager Laura Fortenberry at the hands of a drunk driver, make North Carolina one of the toughest states on drivers under the influence.

The bill, nicknamed "Laura's Law," was first introduced in May 2011 and received only slight modifications before it reached the governor's desk. The bill itself adds severe penalties and increases costs to repeat DWI offenders who must now think a third time before driving a car impaired.

Changes in North Carolina DWI Legislation

Laura's Law will go into effect on December 1, 2011. The legislation increases jail time, fines and monitoring for those convicted of at least a second DWI. For example, a repeat DWI offender could:

• Be fined up to $10,000
• Serve up to three years in jail
• Undergo post-release alcohol monitoring
• Have their license permanently revoked (potentially restored after three years alongside steep conditions)

In order to restore their license, a repeat offender must have an alcohol-detection ignition system installed in their vehicle for at least seven years. Depending upon the severity of their crime, the driver may need to have a BAC of 0.04 or less in order to drive, and in some cases a BAC of 0.00 is required. In addition, tampering with this system is now a more severe class 1 misdemeanor, rather than a class 3.

Due to these alterations and new consequences, it is more important than ever for people accused of a DWI infraction to know their rights and prepare themselves for difficult court battles.

Other Options for Impaired Driving Infractions

According to NBC.com, many criminal defense attorneys say lawmakers need to consider other avenues for addressing DWI legislation. They argue that while tougher penalties are a deterrent, they do not address the primary cause of drunk driving: alcoholism.

Until further changes are made, however, those convicted of DWIs must make responsible decisions before getting behind the wheel of a car.