MADD, or Mothers Against Drunk Driving, have made quite the stance against the act of driving while intoxicated. They have influenced legislatures around the nation, and Missouri is one of them that has started to issue strict penalties for using a vehicle under the influence.

Some seem to think that a first conviction of a DWI isn’t serious- which is why many first-timers claim they did not think twice before getting in a vehicle while intoxicated. The truth is that laws in Missouri are very strict, and politicians are coming down hard on the offenders. One can expect heavy fines, potential jail time, and mandatory community service for the offender caught driving while drunk.

Prior offenders are known as those who have been convicted before. A prior offender will have a minimum five-day sentence in jail. Often with a good lawyer, this sentence can be exchanged for thirty days of community service to help out local organizations. Offenders will likely need to install an interlock device on the vehicle to prevent further mishaps.

You are considered to be a an extreme danger to your community if you have picked up a third DWI. You will be known as a persistent offender, and you will lose your license for an extended period of time. In order to get it back, you must take the written test and driving test over again. Special classes and extra fees will be tacked onto the normal court fees.

All DWI offenders go through a program named the Substance Abuse Traffic Offender program. This program is referred to as SATOP, and is required by the courts for all DWI offenders to take before getting a license back. The DWI class will teach students the effects of alcohol, what’s considered safe, driving regulations, and try to convey how wrong it is to even risk the lives of others while on the open road and intoxicated.

As an offender, you must file for SR-22 insurance. This type of insurance will recognize that you are a high risk driver. You will have to pay for a filing fee and also be subject to higher fees each month. Some insurance companies will not continue issuing insurance to those who get a DWI, while others will simply jack up the price each month to cover their risks in insuring your vehicle.

Final Thoughts

Getting a DWI is not the end of the world; try not to feel depressed about getting one. Instead, use the experience as a reason to better yourself and speak out against the vile act among friends. It’s a dangerous act that can hurt your loved ones.

Learn more about Car Accident Legal Settlements and Saint Louis Car Accident Fatalities.