Michigan’s Super Drunk Driving Law
Effective October, 31, 2010, Michigan's "SUPER DRUNK" law was adopted. This new law punishes and adds greater penalties to drunk drivers with high blood alcohol content (BAC) of .17% or greater.
Super Drunk, High BAC .17% or More, Penalties
| License Sanctions | 1 year license Action: Suspend 45 days (no driving), restrictions with ignition interlock installed on vehicle for remaining 320 days |
| Maximum Jail | 180 days |
| Maximum Fine | $200 to $700 |
| Community Service | Up to 360 hours |
| Vehicle Immobilization | Discretionary |
| Rehabilitation | Mandatory 1 year, which may include AA |
| Driver Responsibility Fee | $1000 per year for 2 years |
Super Drunk Conviction Requires Ignition Interlock Device for 320 Days
The ignition interlock device requires a person to provide breath samples when the vehicle is started and during intervals while the vehicle is being operated. Individuals who violate their restrictions or register .025% or higher on the ignition interlock, will obtain another license penalty equal to the above; another 45 days hard suspension and another 320 days restricted on ignition interlock. The new law requires vehicle impoundment, even if the vehicle is owned by someone else, when a person is caught driving without the interlock device after being placed on Super Drunk restrictions.
The ignition interlock component of this law is inconvenient, embarrassing and expensive with costs approximately $1,000.00. Our firm provides an immediate and aggressive defense to anyone facing a Super Drunk charge in Macomb, Oakland or Wayne County. We have been able to avoid a Super Drunk conviction for many clients who have had a BAC in excess of .17%.
Our firm's opinion was profiled by the Source Newspapers in their press release with respect to Michigan's Super Drunk Law on October 22, 2010:
If you are charged with any Michigan DUI or as a Super Drunk, make an appointment with the ABDO LAW FIRM located in Clinton Township immediately and let us take care of everything.
