As is typical over a holiday weekend or period, Connecticut residents must be concerned about an increase in potential drunk driving activity. This is something that should not need to happen as there are always alternative modes of transportation available. Instead of driving drunk, people can call a cab or other paid ride, get rides with friends or even walk. People can also choose not to drink if they know they must drive.
Connecticut takes drunk driving seriously and keeping convicted drunk drivers off the road and preventing additional offenses is important. This is where the state’s drunk driving penalties come into play. In addition to the potential for criminal penalties, drivers can face administrative penalties through the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles. One of the administrative penalties is a suspension of driving privileges. Some drivers may even have their drivers’ licenses completely revoked.
Even a first offense for operating under the influence can result in a person losing the right to drive. The ability to drive may be able to be reinstated in the driver installs and uses an ignition interlock device. This literally keeps a lock on a vehicle’s ignition until a breath test is passed. People convicted of first OUI may need to use IIDs for 12 months. IIDs may be required for three years for persons convicted of second OUI offenses.
While the use of IIDs can help keep people from drinking and driving, they sadly do not eliminate the problem. This information is not intended to provide legal advice but general information about Connecticut’s administrative penalties for drunk driving.
