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Where you’re arrested for drunk driving matters

On Behalf of | Aug 18, 2024 | Criminal Defense

Drunk driving is against the law throughout Michigan. It’s illegal to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher for adults or any amount for those under 21. Michigan, like all states, has a serious problem when it comes to people driving under the influence. Alcohol has been estimated to be a factor is about 40% of fatal crashes in the state.

What happens to someone after they’re arrested, however, can depend on where they are. The non-profit group Bridge Michigan found that in some counties – particularly those in the southeastern part of the state and parts of the Upper Peninsula, drivers arrested for DWI were more likely to be allowed to plead guilty to a lower offense like operating while visibly impaired (OWVI) or even reckless driving. Of course, that’s more likely if it’s a first offense and the measured BAC wasn’t far over the limit.

The percentage of DWI convictions varies significantly throughout Michigan

Getting a lesser charge can help Michiganders avoid the consequences and stigma of a DWI and often allows them to keep their driver’s license. In some counties, under 30% of DWI arrests resulted in convictions for that offense.

In large areas of the state, that percentage was between 40% and 50%. Here in Kalamazoo, DWI convictions occurred in between 60% and 70% of arrests. The areas around Grand Rapids and Pontiac had the highest rates of conviction – over 70%.

Prosecutors and judges in some areas treat these offenses differently. Of course, each case is unique. A person arrested for drunk driving isn’t guaranteed the offer of a plea deal. Anyone, regardless of where they’re arrested, can improve their chances of getting their charge reduced or even dismissed, depending on the situation. Having legal guidance can make all the difference.