LANSING (AP) -- A new Michigan law is coming that increases the penalties against drunken drivers.
The law that takes effect Sunday creates a new "high blood-alcohol content" category for drivers. The law roughly doubles many penalties for motorists with a blood-alcohol content of .17 -- more than twice the legal limit.
Such drivers could face up to 180 days in jail -- increased from 93 -- and a one-year license suspension -- up from six months.
A suspended motorist can drive with restrictions after 45 days, but he must have a device installed in his vehicle that prevents it from starting if it measures a blood-alcohol level of at least .025.
The law coincides with drunken driving enforcement on and around Halloween.
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Online:
Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning: www.michigan.gov/ohsp
Published: Wed, Oct 27, 2010
