Explaining Washington’s Future DUI Laws

In recent years, Washington has witnessed an unsettling rise in fatalities related to driving under the influence (DUI). Alcohol and drugs impair many of the faculties that drivers need to operate their vehicles safely, and when they don’t follow the law, serious collisions can occur.

This trend underscores the urgent need for reevaluating and strengthening Washington’s DUI regulations. In fact, the state government has already taken steps to implement new DUI laws that will change how these incidents are handled in the future. Here is what you need to know.

Reducing Blood Alcohol Concentration Limits

Between 2017 and 2021, alcohol played a role in almost a third of all deadly traffic incidents. Further complicating matters, over a third of these accidents involved drivers testing positive for drugs.

In response to growing concerns about DUI accidents, Washington state senators have advanced a bill that proposes to reduce the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit. Currently, the limit is 0.08%. The new laws would enforce a limit of 0.05%.

If this change moves forward, Washington will become the second state to implement such stringent measures, with the first being Utah. The goal of this law is to send a strong message to the public that even a single drink might render someone unfit to drive.

Challenges to Future DUI Laws in Washington

As lawmakers navigate potential solutions to DUI trends, they face a significant hurdle: the overwhelming backlog at the state’s toxicology lab. Timely processing of drug and alcohol blood level tests—ideally within 60 to 90 days—plays a pivotal role in DUI cases. 

However, various factors, from increased caseloads to resource constraints, have stretched this timeline to over a year. This delay not only slows down the judicial process but also allows potentially dangerous drivers to remain on the roads.

At the same time, this proposed legislation faces opposition from sectors like the hospitality and wine industries. These entities argue that the law would lead to dangerous implications for businesses and the increased liabilities that they might have if they provide alcohol to a driver who is later arrested for DUI. 

Arrested for a DUI in Washington? Contact a Defense Attorney

Navigating a DUI arrest can be an overwhelming and daunting experience. If this proposed legislation becomes law, it could have profound implications for people who are pulled over by law enforcement. 

Receiving a DUI charge can be scary and life-altering. However, taking appropriate steps immediately after the arrest can make a significant difference in the eventual outcome of the case:

• Stay Calm and Cooperate: While it’s natural to feel anxious, it’s vital to remain calm. Cooperate with law enforcement officers without volunteering any additional information that might incriminate you.
• Understand Your Rights: You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Do not answer any questions or make any statements to law enforcement. Instead, repeatedly request to speak with your lawyer.
• Document the Situation: Once safe and possible, jot down everything about the arrest. This includes where you were, the events leading up to the arrest, officer interactions, and any tests administered.

The most important step to take after a DUI arrest is to contact a criminal defense attorney. Your lawyer can provide critical guidance, ensuring that your rights are upheld throughout the legal process. As soon as possible after your arrest, speak with a Tacoma DUI attorney to discuss your options.