It may be a new year in North Carolina, but the state is facing many of the same old problems—including drunk driving. Data from the North Carolina Highway Patrol shows more than 1,300 drunk drivers were arrested last year alone.
The state is working to address the problem of drunk driving and the North Carolina car accidents intoxicated motorists cause by passing a law that may put more drunk drivers behind bars. Reports indicate the new law would allow drunk drivers to serve their sentences in a county jail rather than a state prison.
According to an article by WBTW 13 News, state prisons are currently overpopulated. This often results in less violent criminals, like drunk drivers, receiving lighter sentences in order to reduce overcrowding; however, the new law looks to utilize more local confinement facilities to house drunk drivers while they serve their time.
The law will not change how drunk driving offenses are prosecuted though, which means drunk drivers may continue to find their way behind the wheel and on to North Carolina roads.
That’s why its important for North Carolina drunk driving accident victims to be aware of their legal rights. One of the best ways to achieve this is by having legal representation by your side as soon as possible.
At HensonFuerst, we’ve helped countless North Carolina car accident victims get back on their feet and we can do the same for you. Call our Durham auto accident lawyers anytime at (866) 777-1170 and we will answer any questions you have regarding your accident and the legal process of seeking compensation for damages.
