Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) are serious offenses with significant consequences in Minnesota. For individuals facing these charges, completing a court-ordered or recommended educational program is often a crucial step towards fulfilling legal requirements and preventing future incidents. Among the various options available, the Driving with Care™ program stands out as a highly regarded, cognitive-based approach. But What Is A Drive With Care Program, and why is it considered a gold standard in Minnesota for DUI education?
Driving with Care™ is a specialized education curriculum designed for individuals who have been cited for DUI or DWI. It’s a cognitive-based program, meaning it focuses on understanding and changing thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to impaired driving. Often mandated by Minnesota courts or recommended following chemical assessments, this program provides comprehensive education on alcohol and its effects, Minnesota state laws, and strategies for responsible decision-making.
Why Driving with Care is the Gold Standard for DUI Education in Minnesota
The Driving with Care program has earned a reputation as the “gold standard” for DWI education in Minnesota for several key reasons:
- Court Acceptance and Recognition: Completing Driving with Care ensures that Minnesota courts and probation offices will accept and recognize the program as fulfilling DUI education requirements. This is a critical factor for individuals navigating the legal system after a DUI/DWI.
- Cognitive-Based Curriculum: Unlike some shorter, more generic DUI classes, Driving with Care utilizes a cognitive-based approach. This methodology is more effective in helping individuals understand the root causes of their impaired driving behavior and develop strategies for lasting change. This deeper level of education is increasingly preferred by Minnesota District Courts.
- Probation Office Preference: Probation offices across numerous Minnesota counties, including Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, Washington, Anoka, Scott, and Carver Counties, as well as the Minnesota Department of Corrections, are increasingly requiring the Driving with Care curriculum. Choosing this program assures individuals that their probation requirements will be met.
- Adaptable Curriculum: A unique strength of Driving with Care is its adaptability. The curriculum is designed to be relevant and beneficial for individuals regardless of their intentions regarding future alcohol consumption. Whether someone aims to quit drinking entirely or plans to continue drinking responsibly, the program offers valuable insights and tools.
Driving with Care Curriculum Levels: Tailored Education for Different Needs
Driving with Care™ offers a structured curriculum across three distinct levels, ensuring that individuals receive education tailored to their specific circumstances and needs:
Level 1 Education: First-Time Offender Program
Level 1 Education is a 12-hour program delivered over six lessons. It is primarily designed for first-time DUI offenders who do not have a history of diagnosed alcohol or drug disorders. The core objectives of Level 1 are:
- Preventing Re-arrest: Equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to avoid future DUI/DWI offenses.
- Alcohol Awareness Education: Providing comprehensive education on alcohol, BAC levels, and the risks associated with impaired driving.
- Preventing Future Alcohol-Related Issues: Fostering responsible decision-making regarding alcohol consumption to mitigate potential problems.
Level 2 Education: Expanded Program for Higher Risk
Level 2 Education is a more extensive 24-hour course delivered over twelve lessons. This program builds upon the foundational knowledge provided in Level 1 and is typically recommended for:
- Repeat DUI/DWI Offenders: Individuals with a history of multiple impaired driving offenses.
- First-Time Offenders with High BAC: First-time offenders whose Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) was significantly elevated (over twice the legal limit).
In addition to the topics covered in Level 1, Level 2 Education includes dedicated sessions focused on:
- Reducing Re-offending Risk: Providing in-depth strategies and support to help repeat offenders break the cycle of impaired driving.
- Addressing Problematic Drinking Patterns: Exploring individual drinking behaviors and developing personalized risk reduction techniques.
Level 2 Therapy: Intensive Intervention for Substance Misuse
Level 2 Therapy is the most comprehensive program, consisting of 42 hours of education and therapy over twenty-one lessons. It is designed for individuals who:
- Exhibit Higher Levels of Alcohol or Drug Misuse: Those with more significant patterns of substance misuse.
- Have Psychosocial Problems Related to Misuse: Individuals experiencing personal or social challenges linked to their alcohol or drug use.
- Require Treatment: Those who are identified as needing a more intensive treatment approach.
Level 2 Therapy involves a longer-term intervention and incorporates:
- Customized Treatment Plan: Individualized plans to address specific needs and challenges.
- Therapeutic Components: Integration of therapy techniques to support behavior change and address underlying issues contributing to substance misuse.
Convenient and Accessible: Online DUI Classes
Recognizing the challenges individuals face in attending traditional in-person classes, Driving with Care offers the flexibility of online DUI and DWI classes via secure video conferencing, also known as telehealth. Online classes provide numerous benefits:
- Convenience: Participate from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating travel time and costs.
- Privacy: Attend classes from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
- Flexibility: Potentially work around your schedule and complete coursework at your own pace (program structure may still involve scheduled sessions).
- Accessibility: Utilize readily available technology like smartphones, tablets, laptops, or desktop computers with webcams and microphones.
This online format is particularly beneficial for working adults and those with scheduling constraints, making DUI education more accessible and less disruptive to daily life.
Minnesota Safe Driving Tips: Reinforcing Responsible Behavior
While DUI education programs address impaired driving specifically, promoting safe driving practices for everyone is crucial. Here are some essential safe driving tips relevant to Minnesota roads and beyond:
- Avoid Distractions: Refrain from using cell phones or other electronic devices while driving. Distracted driving significantly increases accident risk.
- Always Wear Seatbelts: Seatbelts are proven to save lives and reduce the severity of injuries in accidents.
- Be Mindful and Aware: Actively scan your surroundings, check mirrors regularly (every 6-8 seconds), and pay attention to road conditions and other vehicles.
- Obey Speed Limits: Driving too fast or too slow can be dangerous. Maintain a safe speed and flow with traffic.
- Avoid Tailgating: Maintain a safe following distance, as braking distance increases with speed. If someone is tailgating you, allow them to pass.
Understanding Drinking and Driving Statistics in Minnesota
The prevalence of DUI/DWI in Minnesota is highlighted by statistics from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety:
- High Number of Arrests: In 2017, there were 24,862 DWI arrests in Minnesota, averaging 68 per day.
- Common Offense: One in seven Minnesota adults has a DUI on their record.
- Recidivism Concerns: While the majority (58%) of offenders have only one DUI, nearly half of those arrested for DUI will be re-arrested, emphasizing the need for effective intervention programs like Driving with Care.
- Demographics: Males account for over 70% of DUI arrests, and approximately half of offenders are between 20 and 34 years old.
These statistics underscore the ongoing problem of drinking and driving in Minnesota and the importance of programs like Driving with Care in addressing re-offending rates.
DUI Laws in Minnesota: Consequences and Aggravating Factors
Understanding Minnesota DUI laws is essential for all drivers. Key aspects of MN DUI law include:
- Fourth-Degree Misdemeanor DWI: Typically the charge for first-time offenders, carrying penalties of up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Aggravating Factors: Minnesota law recognizes factors that can increase the severity of DUI charges, including:
- High BAC: A BAC of 0.16 or higher (twice the legal limit).
- Child in Vehicle: Having a minor child as a passenger.
- Driving on Cancelled License: Committing DUI while driving on a license cancelled due to prior DUI offenses.
- Felony DUI: Repeat DUI offenses can lead to felony charges in Minnesota, with significant potential sentences.
Enroll in Driving with Care Today
Driving with Care™ provides a comprehensive, court-accepted, and adaptable DUI education program in Minnesota. Whether you are facing court orders, probation requirements, or simply seeking to understand and address impaired driving behavior, Driving with Care offers valuable resources and support. Contact 651.829.2880 to enroll and take a proactive step towards responsible driving and fulfilling your DUI education needs.
