New DUI Law in Hawaii Ready to Take Affect

Police on the Big Island of Hawaii are informing the public that the state's DUI law has been changed to target highly intoxicated drivers.

The law, which will take effect as of July 1, 2007, will have much stricter sanctions for drivers who are arrested with a blood alcohol content of .150 percent or higher, which is almost twice the legal limit of .08 percent.

Under this new law, repeat offenders or highly intoxicated drivers who are arrested will have to give up their motor vehicle registration, driver's license, and license plates to the arresting police officer.  The officer will then give the individual temporary registration and plates until a review is conducted.  The driver will not be eligible for a conditional driving permit while thier case is still under review.

There will also be a mandatory six month revocation of the driver's license and driving privileges implemented.

Currently, Hawaii has one of the highest alcohol-related fatality rates in the nation.  The Big Island has the highest rates inthe state.

Sergeant Dexter Veriato of the Police Department's Traffic Services Section stated, "While the average for the state is about 45 percent, the Big Island's alcohol fatality rate has averaged about 60 percent over the last two years. Impaired driving is a big problem in our community. We need everyone's help in saving lives."