DUI/DWI Recent Legal Changes in Oklahoma

What recent changes have been made to our state’s DUI/DWI laws in Oklahoma?

In May of 2020, Governor Kevin Stitt signed into law Senate Bill 833, which makes several changes to Oklahoma’s DUI/DWI laws. The new law allows for the admissibility of scientific evidence in DUI cases, including blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing. It also requires that drivers arrested for DUI/DWI take either a breath test or a blood test to determine their BAC. Additionally, it creates a new level of intoxication for driving under the influence, with a BAC level between .08 and .15. This new level is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Additionally, the law adds language to the existing “implied consent” law, requiring drivers to submit to BAC testing when arrested for DUI/DWI. Finally, the law increases the penalties for those who refuse to take a BAC test.

Have there been updates to the legal BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) limit in Oklahoma?

Yes, in April of 2019, the legal BAC limit in Oklahoma was lowered from 0.08 to 0.06. This means that anyone operating a motor vehicle with a BAC higher than 0.06 will be charged with a DUI.

How have penalties for first-time DUI offenders changed in recent years in Oklahoma?

In recent years, Oklahoma has increased penalties for first-time DUI offenders. The maximum jail sentence for a first-time DUI offender is now one year, instead of six months. The fines have also been increased from a minimum of $500 to a minimum of $1000. Additionally, the offender’s driver’s license will be suspended for at least 180 days, and an ignition interlock device may be installed in the offender’s vehicle. Lastly, the offender will be required to complete an alcohol awareness or substance abuse program.

Are there new ignition interlock device (IID) requirements or policies in Oklahoma?

Yes, Oklahoma requires all individuals convicted of an alcohol-related offense to install an ignition interlock device as a condition of their suspended driver’s license. The state also requires all first-time DUI offenders to install an IID regardless of their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the arrest. The new ignition interlock device requirements went into affect on November 1st, 2017.

Have there been changes to the process of DUI checkpoints and stops in Oklahoma?

Yes, there have been changes to the DUI checkpoint process in Oklahoma. In May 2019, a new law went into effect that requires law enforcement to obtain a warrant before conducting a DUI checkpoint. The new law also requires that law enforcement publish in a local newspaper the time and location of the DUI checkpoint at least 48 hours prior to the stop. Additionally, officers are required to inform drivers of their right to refuse an officer’s request for field sobriety tests or a breathalyzer test.

What impact have recent legal changes had on DUI/DWI sentencing in Oklahoma?

Recent legal changes in Oklahoma have had a significant impact on DUI/DWI sentencing. Under the 2016 Oklahoma Impaired Driving Act, the penalties for driving under the influence have been significantly increased in an effort to reduce the number of DUI/DWIs in the state. The new law has implemented harsher punishments for those found guilty of DUI/DWI, including longer jail sentences, larger fines, and increased suspension or revocation of driving privileges. Additionally, the act also increased the blood alcohol concentration levels used as a marker for intoxication, providing additional protection to those on Oklahoma’s roads. Finally, the 2016 Oklahoma Impaired Driving Act also created a new “zero tolerance” policy for drivers under 21 years of age, making it illegal for them to drive with any measurable amount of alcohol in their system.

Are there new diversion or treatment programs for DUI offenders in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are new diversion and treatment programs for DUI offenders in Oklahoma. These programs provide an alternative to criminal prosecution, allowing offenders to complete a range of rehabilitative and educational services in order to ultimately have their charges reduced or dismissed. These programs typically involve mandatory alcohol education, group counseling, and/or community service. Additionally, some programs require participation in an ignition interlock device program.

Has the process for DUI/DWI testing or blood draws been modified in Oklahoma?

Yes, the process for DUI/DWI testing has been modified in Oklahoma due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Law enforcement is now required to conduct all DUI/DWI testing at designated testing sites. In addition, any blood draws must now be completed at a medical facility. All drivers may also be required to wear a face covering during the testing process.

Have recent changes affected the availability of plea bargains in DUI cases in Oklahoma?

Recent changes in Oklahoma have not had a major effect on the availability of plea bargains in DUI cases. Plea bargains are still available in DUI cases in Oklahoma. The main change has been an increase in the severity of punishments for those who are convicted of a DUI, with harsher fines and longer jail sentences being imposed.

Are there specific changes in DUI laws for underage drivers in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are specific changes in DUI laws for underage drivers in Oklahoma. In Oklahoma, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .02 or higher. This is referred to as “zero tolerance” and applies to drivers under 21 regardless of the amount of alcohol consumed or their level of impairment. Those found guilty of driving under the influence while under 21 may face increased fines and/or jail time. Additionally, Oklahoma has an implied consent law which requires all drivers over the age of 16 to submit to a chemical test (breath, blood, urine) if asked by a law enforcement officer. Refusal to submit to this test can result in an automatic suspension of driving privileges.

Have there been updates to DUI laws regarding marijuana or other drugs in Oklahoma?

Yes, in April 2021, Oklahoma passed a law that removed jail time for first-time DUI offenses involving marijuana or other drugs. Under the new law, first-time offenders can be fined up to $500 and have their driver’s license suspended for up to six months.

What changes have been made to DUI penalties for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, the penalties for a DUI offense have been made harsher for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders. A first-time DUI conviction now carries a minimum of 90 days in jail, up from 30 days for non-commercial drivers, and a fine of up to $2,500. In addition, any CDL holder convicted of a DUI offense will have their CDL revoked for one year, regardless of the severity of the offense. In addition, if a CDL holder has two DUI convictions within three years, their CDL will be permanently revoked.

Are there new reporting requirements for DUI/DWI convictions to other states in Oklahoma?

No, there are no new reporting requirements for DUI/DWI convictions to other states in Oklahoma. The reporting of DUI/DWI convictions from one state to another is governed by the Driver’s License Compact, which Oklahoma is a member of. This compact requires states to share information about certain traffic convictions, such as DUI/DWI, with other states.

How have recent changes impacted the use of body cameras or dashcams during DUI stops in Oklahoma?

Recent changes in Oklahoma have had a positive impact on the use of body cameras and dashcams during DUI stops. In 2019, Oklahoma enacted House Bill 2380, which requires all law enforcement officers to wear body cameras while on duty. This legislation has made it easier for officers to record every DUI stop, providing valuable evidence in court. Additionally, in 2020, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol began using dashcams to record traffic stops and other law enforcement incidents. This has allowed for easier access to video footage that can be used to prove or disprove DUI related charges. These recent changes have helped to increase the transparency of DUI stops and ensure that justice is served in all cases.

Have there been changes to DUI laws related to accidents causing injury or death in Oklahoma?

Yes, in Oklahoma there have been changes in the DUI laws related to accidents causing injury or death. The most recent change was passed by Oklahoma legislature in 2015, which increased the penalties for DUI-related vehicular homicide and aggravated DUI causing injury. Under the new laws, an individual can be charged with second degree murder if they cause the death of another person while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Furthermore, an individual can be charged with a felony and face a minimum of one year up to life in prison if they cause great bodily injury to another person while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Are there new policies or laws regarding DUI expungement or record sealing in Oklahoma?

Yes, in 2019, the Oklahoma Legislature passed Senate Bill 639, which allows for some individuals convicted of a DUI to expunge their records. The bill requires that the individual must have completed all conditions of their sentence, including payment of fines and fees, and must not have any pending criminal charges. Additionally, the individual must not have been convicted of a DUI within the past 15 years.

Have recent legal changes affected DUI insurance rates in Oklahoma?

Yes, recent legal changes have affected DUI insurance rates in Oklahoma. In May 2018, a law was passed that requires convicted drunk drivers to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle for a minimum of six months. This means that any driver convicted of a DUI will pay higher insurance rates due to the increased risk.

What changes have been made to DUI/DWI court processes and procedures in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, several changes have been made to DUI/DWI court processes and procedures to better protect public safety and hold offenders accountable. These changes include increased fines, penalties, and monitoring for offenders; increased education and treatment options for offenders; more stringent requirements for offenders to enter the DUI court program; and the establishment of sobriety checkpoints throughout the state. Additionally, Oklahoma law now requires those convicted of a DUI/DWI offense to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle. These changes are aimed at addressing the issue of impaired driving and ensuring that all Oklahoma residents are kept safe on the roads.

Are there additional resources or diversion programs for individuals with substance abuse issues in Oklahoma?

Yes, in Oklahoma there are numerous additional resources and diversion programs for individuals with substance abuse issues. The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services provides a variety of services such as substance abuse counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and crisis services. Additional services are available through local community mental health centers, state-funded treatment programs, and nonprofit organizations. Additionally, many counties participate in drug court programs, which provide intensive supervision and treatment services as well as alternative sentencing options for those struggling with addiction.

What is the process for staying informed about ongoing and future changes in DUI/DWI laws in Oklahoma?

1. Follow news sources and legal websites that cover Oklahoma DUI/DWI laws. These sources will provide updates on changes to the law as they occur.

2. Contact your local District Attorney’s office and ask for regular updates on changes to DUI/DWI laws in Oklahoma.

3. Attend informational seminars and conferences hosted by organizations such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) or the Oklahoma Bar Association. These types of organizations often host events that provide information on upcoming changes to DUI/DWI laws.

4. Subscribe to an email list from a reputable organization or website that specializes in DUI/DWI law in Oklahoma. This will provide you with regular updates on any changes to the law.