New Jersey leglislature considers new drunk driving bill
New Jersey is considering a new drunk driving bill which would require certain first time DWI offenders to install a lock on their vehicle's ignition. The lock releases after the driver blows into the breathalyzer like device and is deemed sober. A bill approved by the Assembly Judiciary Committee Monday would require first time DWI offenders whose blood alcohol content (BAC) was greater than .15% when they are convicted of DWI to install this lock on the ignition to their vehicle. Remember, .08% BAC is the legal limit in New Jersey. For additional information, see the Asbury Park Press article entitled "N.J. drunken driver ignition lock bill advances".
This bill, if passed, would have a significant impact on drunk driving law in New Jersey. This would create an incentive for drivers to refuse to submit to a breath test if they fear that their breathalyzer or Alcotest readings are higher than .15%. I'm not sure that this is the best result and I don't think this is the impact that the legislature wants to have on drunk driving law in New Jersey.
