Recent legislation changes in Oregon DUI laws have received much praise by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), but the state still only has a three-star rating from the organization. In order to increase this rating, MADD would like to see tougher laws against checkpoints and no-refusals. Even so, the state seems to be headed in the right direction, showing a dramatic decrease in DUI statistics.
Oregon DUI by the Numbers (based on 2012 overall numbers)
The decrease in fatalities over this ten-year span is very impressive. Oregon sports a huge decrease in driving fatalities and only a 2.2 fatality rate per 100,000 residents.
- 13,592 total DUI arrests (78 from under-21 drivers)
- 86 total alcohol-related fatalities (10 from under-21 drivers)
- 42.6 percent decrease in alcohol-related fatalities
- 52.9 percent decrease in alcohol-related fatalities for under-21 drivers
- 61.8 percent of fatalities involved a driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15+
- 50 percent of repeat offenders had a BAC of .15+
DUI First Offense Penalties in Oregon
Oregon boasts some of the largest monetary fines and mandatory suspensions for DUI convictions in the country. First time offenders are facing very stiff penalties if convicted in this state. Oregon uses a 1-year washout rule when enforcing its DUI penalties and fines.
- Monetary fines as low as $1,000 and as much as $2,000
- Mandatory IID required
- Minimum of two days and up to one year in jail
- Mandatory license suspension of one year
Oregon is an implied consent state. While you can refuse to take chemical test, doing so will result in an automatic suspension of your license for a period of one year with a minimum fine of $500 (maximum $1,000). These penalties are in place regardless of whether or not you win your DUI case in court.
Should You Hire a DUI Attorney if Arrested and Charged in Oregon?
While you may be able to plead to “wet reckless” in many states, this is not possible in Oregon. With such severe penalties in place and massive escalations for repeat offenders, it is highly recommended to hire a DUI lawyer in Oregon if you are arrested and charged. Before hiring an attorney, you can use FightDUICharges.com for a free evaluation of your case to see the best course of action. You will also be able to find recommendations for DUI attorneys licensed to practice in Oregon.
Taryn J. White is a legal research specialist and DUI law news reporter. Her current accomplishments include helping those facing any driving under the influence arrest charges, get free online assistance in learning how to fight a DUI case for the best possible outcome.