New Laws for 2012: How Pleading to a "Wet Reckless" Will Affect Your Driving Privileges
In September 2011, the Legislature debated the merits of AB 520, which lists new criteria for obtaining a restricted driver's license after entering a plea to a "Wet Reckless". The September 8, 2011 Assembly Floor Analysis shows that this bill would:
- "Allow a person convicted of “wet reckless” to apply for a restricted license after a 90-day suspension, if he or she installs an ignition interlock … and complies with all the other requirements, including proof of financial responsibility, payment of fees, and satisfactory participation in a driving-under-the-influence (DUI) program.
- Limit restricted-license eligibility to persons having no more than two prior alcohol-related convictions within ten years.
- Require the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to advise eligible persons of the ability to apply for a restricted license….
- Provide that the restricted-driving privilege remains in effect for at least the remaining period of the original suspension and until the driver provides proof of completion of a DUI program.
- Require proof of financial responsibility in order to maintain a restricted license.
- Require DMV to terminate a restricted license upon notification from the DUI program that the person has failed to comply with … the program.
- Require DMV to terminate a restricted license upon notification from an IID installer that the person attempted to tamper with or remove the IID.
- Prohibit the holder of a commercial driver's license to obtain a restricted license if the holder was operating a commercial motor vehicle at the time [of] the violation …."
If you are arrested or charged with a violation of a California Vehicle code contact Christine McGuire, Santa Cruz, San Jose, Monterey criminal defense attorney.