DUI/DWI Recent Legal Changes in Washington

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

1. All drivers over the age of 21 with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher are considered driving while under the influence (DUI).

2. The legal limit for those under 21 is 0.02 BAC.

3. All drivers found to be driving with a BAC of 0.15 or greater will face an automatic 1-year suspension and a potential maximum fine of $5,000.

4. The current 12-month license suspension for a DUI conviction has been replaced with a 5-year revocation, although some drivers may qualify for an administrative license suspension after the first year.

5. Ignition interlock devices are now required for all DUI offenders when reinstating their driver’s license.

6. Repeat offenders will now face additional penalties such as increased fines and jail time, vehicle immobilization, and even vehicle forfeiture.

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

Yes, the legal BAC limit in Washington State was lowered in 2019 from 0.08 to 0.05. This means that it is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.05 or higher, instead of the previous limit of 0.08.

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

In recent years, the penalties for first-time DUI offenders in Washington have become more severe. The most significant changes include an increase in fines, required alcohol treatment, and mandatory jail time. Fines for first-time DUI offenses in Washington have increased from $865 in 2009 to $1,124 in 2019. Additionally, court-ordered alcohol treatment is now required for all first-time DUI offenders for a minimum of 12 hours. Finally, the mandatory jail sentence for first-time offenders has increased from 24 hours to two days in jail.

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

Yes. Ignition interlock devices are required for all DUIs in Washington. Drivers are required to install an IID on their vehicles after conviction and maintain it for a certain amount of time. The amount of time depends on the severity of the DUI and if it is a repeat offense. Additionally, Washington has now implemented a hard start interlock option for people with multiple DUI convictions. This requires the vehicle to be shut off completely before the driver can attempt to start the vehicle again.

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

Yes, there have been several changes to the process of DUI checkpoints and stops in Washington. In 2020, the Washington State Supreme Court made a ruling that requires police officers to have reasonable suspicion before conducting a DUI checkpoint or stop. This means that officers must have some articulable facts to indicate that a person has committed a crime or is about to commit a crime before they can legally pull someone over. Additionally, the state of Washington has also passed additional laws that give drivers additional rights during DUI stops, including the right to remain silent and refuse to answer any questions not related to driver’s license information. Lastly, the state of Washington now requires police officers to provide drivers with an explanation of their rights prior to asking them to participate in field sobriety tests.

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

Recent legal changes in Washington have had a significant impact on DUI/DWI sentencing. In 2019, Washington implemented a new law that requires anyone convicted of a first-time DUI/DWI to serve at least two days in jail or receive 24 hours of community service. Additionally, a minimum fine of $930 is mandated for all first-time DUI/DWI convictions. The new law also requires a convicted offender to attend an alcohol assessment and treatment program, install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle, and obtain an SR-22 form from their insurance company. Finally, the law increases the maximum jail time for repeat offenders from 364 days to 364 days. These changes have stiffened the penalties for DUI/DWI in Washington, providing more deterrence for potential offenders.

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

Yes, there are new diversion or treatment programs for DUI offenders in Washington. For example, the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board recently launched the Responsible Vendor Program, which is an online diversion program for those convicted of driving under the influence. The program offers education, training and resources on responsible alcohol service and self-regulation for bars, restaurants and retail stores that serve alcohol. Additionally, Washington has an array of treatment options for DUI offenders, including outpatient and residential treatment centers, as well as 12-step programs.

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

Yes. In Washington State, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, law enforcement officers have been instructed to limit physical contact during DUI/DWI testing and blood draws. Officers are also encouraged to utilize no-touch and contactless technologies when possible. Additionally, officers must wear face coverings during all interactions with suspects and take additional precautions to minimize potential exposure.

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

Recent changes in the Washington DUI law have affected the availability of plea bargains in DUI cases. The changes included raising the threshold for vehicular assault from a 0.08 blood alcohol content (BAC) to a 0.15 BAC. This means that prosecutors can now require a more serious plea bargain, such as a felony charge, to resolve an otherwise misdemeanor DUI offense. This has had an overall decrease on the availability of plea bargains in DUI cases in Washington.

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

Yes, there are specific changes in DUI laws for underage drivers in Washington. Under Washington law, drivers under 21 years of age cannot have a BAC (blood alcohol content) of 0.02 or higher while operating a vehicle. Drivers under 21 also face an automatic 90-day license suspension for refusing a BAC test or having a BAC of 0.02 or higher. The penalties for an underage DUI conviction in Washington include jail time, large fines, and an extended license suspension.

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

Yes, the state of Washington has recently updated its DUI laws to include marijuana and other drugs. Under the new law, a driver can be charged with driving under the influence if they are found to have a THC concentration of 5.00 nanograms or more per milliliter of blood, or a THC-COOH concentration of 10.0 nanograms or more per milliliter of blood. A driver can also be charged with DUI if they are found to have any detectable amount of other drugs in their system. The new law went into effect on July 28, 2020.

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

1. CDL holders convicted of a DUI will have their CDL license suspended for at least one year, and three years if it is a second offense.

2. CDL holders must complete an alcohol evaluation and comply with any recommended treatment before they can reinstate their CDL.

3. CDL holders must complete an alcohol assessment and attend at least a 12-hour alcohol abuse education program before they can reinstate their CDL.

4. CDL holders convicted of a DUI must have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle before they can reinstate their CDL.

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

No, there are no new reporting requirements for DUI/DWI convictions to other states in Washington. All DUI/DWI convictions are reported to the Washington State Department of Licensing, and the information is shared with other states as part of the Driver License Compact.

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

Recent changes have impacted the use of body cameras or dashcams during DUI stops in Washington by increasing officer accountability. In 2020, a law was passed requiring Washington law enforcement officers to wear body cameras at all times during DUI stops. This law aims to ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions and that all interactions between officers and the public are captured on video. The law also requires that all video recordings be reviewed within five days of the incident and be accessible to the public upon request. This increased oversight helps ensure that officers are following proper procedures during DUI stops and can provide evidence in the event of any misconduct.

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

Yes, there have been changes to DUI laws related to accidents causing injury or death in Washington. In 2015, Washington state passed a law that made it a felony to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs and cause an accident that resulted in the death or serious injury of another person. The law increased the penalties to include a maximum prison sentence of 10 years, fines up to $20,000, and license suspension for up to five years. Additionally, people convicted of this crime may be required to attend an alcohol and drug treatment program.

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

Yes. In 2020, the Washington state legislature passed a law allowing certain people to have their DUI records sealed or expunged. The law applies to those who were arrested for a first-time DUI, and who have completed the court-ordered treatment program, if one was ordered. The law also allows for the sealing or expungement of certain other criminal offenses related to DUI, such as Driving While License Suspended (DWLS). To take advantage of this law, individuals must petition the court and prove they have met the requirements.

Have recent legal changes affected DUI insurance rates in Washington?

Yes, recent legal changes have affected DUI insurance rates in Washington. In 2019, a new law was passed in Washington that allows drivers with a DUI conviction to receive insurance discounts if they complete certain requirements such as enrolling in an alcohol risk-reduction program and meeting specific sobriety requirements. Additionally, insurance companies are now required to use “risk-based” pricing when setting rates for drivers with DUI convictions, meaning the premium is based on the driver’s risk level rather than their prior convictions. As a result of these changes, drivers with a DUI conviction may be able to get lower rates on their auto insurance premiums.

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

In Washington State, major changes have been made to DUI/DWI court processes and procedures in recent years. Beginning in 2018, Washington State changed the law to require all defendants with a BAC above .15 to be sent directly to a DUI Court program for treatment and monitoring, instead of being charged in a regular court. This change was made in an effort to reduce recidivism and offer more comprehensive and effective treatment options for individuals struggling with addiction and substance abuse.

Additionally, Washington State has implemented new programs such as the 24/7 Sobriety Program and Electronic Home Monitoring. These programs are designed to help participants stay sober by testing for alcohol or drug use on a regular basis and offering incentives for compliance. Finally, Washington has also implemented tougher fines and penalties for DUI-related offenses, including license suspensions of up to 5 years for repeat offenders.

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

Yes, there are several additional resources and diversion programs for individuals with substance abuse issues in Washington. These include both residential and outpatient treatment programs that are designed to help individuals address their substance use issues in a safe and supportive environment. Additionally, there are a number of support groups, such as 12-step programs, available to help individuals in recovery. There are also various court-ordered diversion programs and case management services available to individuals with substance abuse issues. Finally, many counties in Washington also have Prevention and Treatment Resource Centers that provide education, prevention, and treatment services for those struggling with substance use disorders.

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

1. Contact your local Washington state legislative office to be informed of any ongoing or upcoming changes to DUI/DWI laws.

2. Follow news outlets, such as the Seattle Times and the Olympia News Tribune, to stay up-to-date on any news related to DUI/DWI law changes.

3. Consult Washington State’s DUI/DWI website which provides detailed information on existing laws and any proposed changes.

4. Attend public hearings or other events hosted by state government officials to provide input on any proposed changes in DUI/DWI laws.

5. Follow social media accounts of DUI/DWI advocacy groups to receive updates on proposed or passed changes in DUI/DWI laws.