What Are the DUI Statistics in California?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious issue in the United States. Among surveyed individuals, about 43% admitted to having driven under the influence at least once since reaching adulthood. Alcohol-related accidents became an epidemic in the 1970s, and although new laws have been introduced to limit future incidents, DUI remains a persistent problem.

In California, about one-third of traffic fatalities are related to drunk driving. In 2022 alone, 1,069 people died in alcohol-related crashes in the state. Nationwide, approximately 30 people die each day in drunk driving accidents.

Most DUI convictions involve individuals aged 40 or younger. Less than 1% of DUI arrests involve underage minors.

The vast majority of DUI charges in California involve first-time offenders.

What Happens After a First-Time DUI Offense?

After being pulled over, tested, and arrested for DUI, your driver’s license will be suspended. The police will forward your suspended license and a copy to the DMV, which will review the police report and test results from the arrest.

In most cases, you will be taken directly to jail. If no one was injured in the incident, the detention may be brief, and you may be released within a few hours.

You may request a hearing with the DMV within ten days of your license suspension. If your license is to be reinstated after the suspension, you’ll need to pay a reinstatement fee. If the DMV hearing finds sufficient evidence of DUI or if you are later convicted in court, the suspension period could last up to six months.

What Are the Penalties for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol?

The DMV‘s license suspension process is separate from criminal court DUI proceedings. DUI consequences vary by state.

In California, a first offense typically includes:

  • License suspension
  • Attendance at a victim impact panel
  • Three to nine months of DUI school
  • Fines totaling at least $2,000 and up to $5,000
  • Increased auto insurance rates for three years
  • Possible requirement to install an ignition interlock device, requiring a breath test before driving
  • Three to five years of probation
  • Up to six months in jail
  • Community service may also be required by some judges

Can You Legally Refuse a Breath or Blood Alcohol Test?

Under California law, drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs are required to submit to chemical testing to determine whether they are over the legal limit.