New Jersey is not really serious about saving it’s citizens from drunk drivers. The current laws simply punish and more importantly to the state provide revenue through fines than actually prevent drunk drivers from driving on our roads. If the state were serious about preventing drunk driving it would take proactive measures rather than focusing on punishment and fines. A DWI in New Jersey can cost the offender tens of thousands of dollars. There are no “hardship” licenses in New Jersey nor public transportation so the offender can’t get to work to pay these fines much less take care of their families.
A more proactive approach would be to require breathalyzer machines outside of any establishment serving alcohol. Most drivers convicted with a .08 blood alcohol content have no idea they have drunk too much to drive. If they could test themselves they could find alternate transportation. Another method to PREVENT drunk driving rather than to just punish is to allow overnight parking without consequence at these establishments. Also, taxi companies be provided tax incentives in the suburbs so that service is available. Maybe local police should focus on prevention rather than quotas. I would like to see local lawmakers these ideas into law so that we all can be safe.
