Expect to find South Carolina DUI laws to become even stricter if proposed legislation is signed into law. Previously, the emphasis was on repeat offenders driving on the road while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Now the emphasis is on the first time offender that has never had a drinking or drug related offense in the past.

South Carolina already requires repeat offenders to have an ignition interlock device upon their vehicles. What this means is that that driver is required to breathe into the device before attempting to start his or her vehicle. If alcohol is detected upon the breath, the driver will not be able to start the vehicle.

Certain legislators feel that current laws are inadequate. State Senator Joel Lourie, who has sponsored this bill, stated: "By the time they've committed their second offense, they've hurt somebody." The legislation he is proposing would require first time offenders to also have ignition interlock devices placed upon their vehicles. It has also been suggested that those that refuse to take a breathalyzer test also be forced to place these same devices in their vehicle.

The message is obvious. Legislators intend to make it more difficult for anyone suspected of drunk driving being restricted in their operations of motor vehicles. Unfortunately, when trying to add on legislation that will punish individuals for simply refusing to take a breathalyzer test, they are making the assumption that all such individuals are guilty of a drinking and driving offense.

Whether one does or does not agree with such legislation, individuals charged with a DUI have a right to contest the charges against them. They should not be placed in the position of incriminating themselves, by being coerced into taking a breathalyzer test, before they have had a chance to speak to an attorney.

Source: SCnow.com, "Bill would require ignition interlocks for first offence DUIs," by Robert Kittle, Feb. 1, 2012