NCJ Number
110884
Journal
American Journal Drug Alcohol Abuse Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Dated: (1988) Pages: 97-108
Date Published
1988
Length
12 pages
Annotation
On May 19, 1980, a major revision in the Alabama driving under the influence (DUI) laws went into effect which gave judges greater discretion in sentencing.
Abstract
This revision resulted in an increase in the proportion of DUI convictions, and reduction in the number of DUI citations reduced to reckless driving, a reduction in the proportion of offenders acquitted and/or dismissed, an increase in the proportion of revocations, and an increase in court referrals to an educational program on the first offense. However, the 1980 revision was accompanied by a significant increase in the percentage of alcohol-related accidents. Consequently, the Alabama Legislature revised the 1980 law on July 29, 1983, the revision taking effect immediately. The more stringent penalties in the new law apparently had a positive effect on all six alcohol-related measures cites above. Most importantly, the latest revision was accompanied by a significant decrease (2.8 percent) in the proportion of alcohol-related accidents. (Author abstract)