Tennessee lawmakers tackle new DUI laws meant to keep your family safe on the roadways. Unfortunately two months into 2008, parents and prosecutors say we've already seen far too many tragedies. They're hoping the new laws will soon make an impact on our streets. Even on a carefree day of play, Teresa Wesson, mother of two, has a nagging concern. "It's often in the back of my mind driving and trying to constantly be aware of signs of someone driving intoxicated," she says.
Deadly DUI wrecks where some of our youngest turn into victims fuel her fear. Two examples include one at Bailey and Willow early last month where police say Heather Nicole Markum's Toyota collided with another car killing her infant son and her 14 year old daughter. And one in late January on Williams Street where police say Pierre Hereford lost control of his car and plummeted off highway 27 killing his one year old son. But change is in the air. A bill passed by the Tennessee senate would clarify existing DUI law, resulting in harsher penalties for DUI offenders who kill or hurt children riding in their cars. It's one of several pieces of DUI related legislation under consideration that could make a distinct difference on local roadways soon. Woods says we saw a drop of 17 fatalities last year. He and parents like Teresa Wesson, hope the new laws will help drive home a serious message, don't drink and drive. Another bill would lead to immediate temporary loss of license for drunk drivers who refuse to get tested. Others would increase fines, reduce the legal alcohol level for repeat offenders and create a registry for repeat offenders.
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