California’s NEW DUI Laws: What is a DUID?

What is a DUID?

The state of California has broadened the scope of its DUI laws to encompass not only alcohol-impaired driving but also the rising issue of drugged driving. Effective January 1, 2022, California’s DUI laws introduced new sections, namely section 23152 and section 23153, emphasizing the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs (DUID).

Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Laws

Another vital update to California’s regulations pertains to the Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (IID) laws. Given the challenges of driving with an IID and its implications, it’s imperative for drivers to understand how they might legally avoid an IID requirement, especially before any DMV hearings determining potential license suspensions.

Enhanced Training for Law Enforcement

California is also prioritizing the training of its law enforcement officers to identify signs of DUID more effectively. By enhancing officers’ ability to detect drug-impaired drivers and increasing public awareness about these initiatives, the state aims to deter potential offenders and reduce drug-impaired driving incidents.

Notably, many drivers remain unaware that state law doesn’t penalize them for refusing a roadside field sobriety test. Thus, anyone charged with a DUI is encouraged to seek a thorough DUI arrest review to ensure all procedures were legally followed, which could be pivotal in contesting the charges.

Penalties Under the 2022 California DUI Laws

California’s DUI laws remain among the strictest nationwide. Below is a summary of the 2022 penalties for DUI offenses:

1st Time Offenders:

  • Fines between $1,400 to $2,600
  • Jail time ranging from 4 days to 6 months
  • License suspension for 30 days to 10 months
  • Mandatory IID installation

2nd Time Offenders:

  • Fines ranging from $1,800 to $2,800
  • 10 days to 1-year jail sentence
  • 2-year license suspension, reducible to one year
  • Compulsory IID installation

3rd Time Offenders:

  • Penalties between $1,800 and $18,000
  • 120 days to 1-year jail time
  • 3-year license suspension
  • Required IID installation

What You’ve Learned

California’s 2022 DUI laws are a testament to the state’s commitment to road safety. Residents and visitors should be well-informed of these updates to avoid severe penalties and maintain the safety of all road users.

If you’ve been charged with a DUI/DWI, then click here or call (800) 384-5297 for a free consultation with a qualified DUI/DWI attorney.