Investigation Finds California’s DUI Laws and Enforcement Failures Driving Surge in Alcohol-Related Deaths

Overview

• Federal estimates show alcohol-related roadway deaths in California have climbed by more than 50% over the past decade, outpacing the national rise more than twofold.
• CalMatters’ review finds California generally does not elevate a DUI to a felony until a fourth offense within 10 years unless injuries occur, and licenses are restored far faster than in several other states.
• State data show drivers with prior DUIs account for a majority of fatal and injury DUI crashes, with many offenders avoiding consequences by skipping court or continuing to drive while suspended.
• California does not require ignition interlocks for first-time DUI convictions, judges seldom order them for repeat offenders according to a 2023 DMV report, and MADD rated the state poorly on interlock laws.
• This fall, lawmakers stripped a proposal to mandate interlocks for all DUI convictions after the DMV cited limited capacity, and legal classifications mean many DUI deaths are not treated as violent felonies.