Despite the fact that arrests for drunk driving are fairly common, many people assume that no matter how risky their behavior, they're immune from being pulled over for such an offense. We often assume that drunk drivers are always alcoholics, that they're habitual offenders and that they all belong in jail. But anyone can make the mistake to drink and drive, and the consequences are serious and long-lasting, no matter who you are.
A mother in Aloha, Portland, discovered this one afternoon in early November when she drove to her son's school to pick up him and two of his friends. Another driver on the road called 911 with a report that an SUV nearly collided with oncoming traffic, then followed the vehicle to a Hillsboro elementary school. It was there that the woman picked up her son and two other boys. She was stopped soon afterward by police, who said her blood alcohol level was nearly three times the legal driving limit.
Earlier this month, the woman pleaded guilty to one count each of driving under the influence of intoxicants and recklessly endangering another person. She was sentenced to 10 days in jail, followed by two years of probation. She also had to pay more than $3,000 in fines, not to mention attorney fees, assessments and surcharges. Her driver's license was suspended for one year and she was steered toward drug and alcohol abuse treatment. Perhaps most upsetting is that she was cut off from contact from the victims, including her son. She is only allowed contact with him with permission from the state Department of Human Services.
This case demonstrates that all kinds of people make the mistake of drinking and driving. As a result of this mother's choice to do so, she's lost not just her license, freedom and contact with her son, but possibly the trust of other parents, as well. If you find yourself facing a DUII charge, it's wise to take action right away by contacting a defense attorney who will do everything possible to fight the charges against you and protect your reputation.
Source: Oregon Live, "Aloha mom admits to picking up children from Hillsboro school while driving drunk," Roger Gregory, March 26, 2012
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