It is no secret that drunk driving or driving under the influence is one of the United States’ biggest issues. It is a problem that transcends state lines—every local government is doing their best to curb the issue by smart legislation and community education.
The statistics do not lie. Around 29 people die every day due to errors of people driving under the influence. In terms of damages, people cumulatively spend approximately $44 billion annually. It is a problem that continues to grow through time, and it seems like it won’t be going down anytime soon.
Out of State Drivers in Michigan
If you’re driving close to state lines and have crossed to Michigan while driving under the influence, chances are you’re probably going to be caught in the act. Michigan has proven to have a hard stance in driving under the influence, and no one is exempt from facing the consequences of being caught. Even if you don’t technically live in Michigan, as long as you drove within the territory with your car, you’ll be charged with driving under the influence.
When you’re charged in Michigan, your home state will give you the same punishment in accordance with their local laws. For example, if the penalties under Michigan law and another state are conflicting, local legislation is followed. The whole process when it comes to out-of-state drivers DUI in Michigan is complicated. To understand it better, you need a reliable guide with years of experience in the business.
Reporting System for Out of State DUI Drivers in Michigan
There are three ways by which states can update one another regarding announcement and suspensions in licenses. The first one is through the National Dive Registry (NDR). This passive database collects reports suspension but doesn’t necessarily send those reports directly to the home state.
In this method of reporting, if a suspension or license revocation due to a Michigan DUI occurs, it will be directly reported to the NDR. However, the home state would need to check the registry to see the conviction. More often than not, home states only check NDR when there is an existing appeal for renewal or violation within the home state. Upon discovery of the Michigan DUI suspension, they will suspend your license and give the necessary penalties.
Two other ways to report Michigan DUIs is through the Non-Resident Violation Compact (NRVC) and the Driver License Compact (DLC). Michigan could use either of these to report one’s DUI and sent the case to the home state for further feedback or licenses suspension.
Processing Penalties for Out of State DUI Convictions
Before an out of state conviction results in an in-state sanction, the following must be done first:
- Michigan must report the conviction.
As mentioned, there are several channels by which Michigan can report the conviction to the home state of the person in question. It can be indirectly through NDR, or it can be directly through reporting to DLC or NRVC.
- Must be substantially similar to the home state conviction status
After reporting the Michigan DUI, the home state of the accused should recognize the conviction as “substantially similar” to the rules and penalties that govern their existing laws. After studying the similarities, one should give feedback regarding the intersecting sanctions and see which works best.
- The home state must impose the necessary sanctions.
After studying and analyzing everything, the home state should impose the penalties connected with the Michigan DUI report.
Why You Need Experienced and Dependable DUI Attorneys for Your Out of State DUI Case
Figuring out what your penalties are and knowing what you can and cannot get away with is already confusing for an average reasonable person. It’s best to approach professionals with years of experience in the field. Allow us to make it easier for you to understand the possible implications of an out of state DUI.
The Clark Law Office is one of the most reputable criminal law firms in Michigan. Regardless if you live out of state or not, it is strategic to seek the help of those who know the local laws the most. Contact us now if you’re dealing with an out of state DUI and let us show you how we can help!