Driving under the influence

  • Published
  • By Marty Peek
  • 90th Missile Wing SARC
FE WARREN AFB, WYO. --  The driving-under-the-influence violations at Warren have been on a downward trend lately, but a recent increase of infractions brings focus to a continuing problem. 

Repercussions stemming from a DUI vary according to location and circumstances, but one thing is certain -- the penalties, civilian or military, come at high costs. 

The civilian costs are often great and tend to be more than people recognize. 

Costs and penalties associated with DUI are different by the county, but the price tag of a first-time DUI ranges from $4,000 to more than $25,000. This can include $250 to $1,000 in fines, $372 to $1,425 in court fees, $1,500 to $5,000 in attorney's fees and a variety of other fees and costs depending upon blood alcohol level. 

Other civilian consequences include suspension of driver's license, personal injury lawsuits, vehicular manslaughter convictions and prison sentences. 

Why do military members, who have all heard the messages and warnings about the penalties still drink and drive? There are safe alternatives, like a ride home with the 
Cowboy Shuttle or with a good "Wingman" designated driver? 

Service members with DUI offenses can be taken to court-martial and charged under Uniform Code of Military Justice Article 111, Drunken or Reckless Operation of a Vehicle. 
If a DUI results in personal injuries, an Airman can expect a maximum of dishonorable discharge, confinement for 18 months and forfeiture of all pay and allowances. Without personal injuries, the maximum punishment is a bad conduct discharge, six months confinement and forfeiture of all pay and allowances. 

DUI violations may also be handled through Article 15 actions, with punishments depending on case circumstance and the commander's decision. 

The "0-0-1-3" Culture of Responsible Choices program is as important now as it has been since reducing the number of alcohol related incidents at Warren by 74% in 2004. 

The standard "0-0-1-3" stands for zero drinks under age 21, zero DUIs, max one drink per hour, max three drinks in one night. 

Our goal is to significantly reduce alcohol-related incidents among our Airmen. 

It's not just an anti-DUI program, because alcohol abuse is a factor in many types of other problems, including public drunkenness, domestic violence, sexual assault and theft.