A new DUI enforcement unit in Kershaw County, South Carolina, is credited for saving lives and reducing accidents last year.

According to the sheriff, when the program began last July, six deputies assigned to the project have written more than 3,900 tickets, approximately 1,500 warning tickets and 45 DUI tickets. The goal of the program is to save lives and catch those that are driving drunk and violating seat belt laws, not to pull over every single person.

In 2011, the county had 10 traffic deaths, down four from the previous year. Kershaw County was the only county overseen by the South Carolina Highway Patrol that had a decline in traffic deaths, as well as a 20 percent decrease in collisions.

This program highlights the importance of reducing DUI and traffic violations in the state of South Carolina. In general, being arrested for a DUI can have serious consequences. Whether you have been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence, or are facing more serious charges related to a DUI, it's best to speak with an attorney that specializes in South Carolina DUI law to make sure that your rights are protected. An attorney will know how to defend you against fines, jail time and a permanent record.

The penalties of drunk driving in the state vary depending on the number of prior convictions, but penalties could include:

  • For a first offense, this is a misdemeanor with fines ranging from $1,000 to $1,200, possible license suspension and jail time.
  • The second offense is much more severe. The fines could triple to $4,000 compared to a first offense. You could also face probation and a one year license suspension.
  • A fourth offense is a felony and the penalties are severe.

Source: The State, "Kershaw's new DUI unit saving lives in crackdown," John Monk, Jan. 30, 2012