Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) citations can lead to significant legal and personal challenges. In Minnesota, the Driving With Care™ program offers a comprehensive, cognitive-based education solution tailored for DUI and DWI offenders. This specialized curriculum is frequently mandated by courts and recommended during chemical assessments in Minnesota, aiming to educate individuals and reduce the risk of repeat offenses. If you’ve been asking, “What Is A Drive With Care Program?”, this guide will provide you with a detailed overview of this gold-standard DUI education in Minnesota.
Understanding the Driving with Care Program
What is Driving with Care?
Driving With Care™ is an educational program specifically designed for individuals who have received a DUI or DWI. It utilizes a cognitive-based approach, focusing on understanding and modifying thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to impaired driving. The program covers crucial topics such as alcohol education, understanding Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) levels, Minnesota state laws related to DUI/DWI, patterns of alcohol consumption, and practical strategies to prevent future offenses. A key aspect of the program is its adaptability, catering to both individuals who intend to continue drinking and those pursuing sobriety.
Who is Driving with Care For?
This program is primarily intended for individuals who:
- Are court-ordered to complete DUI education: Following a DUI or DWI citation, Minnesota courts often mandate participation in a cognitive-based DUI education program like Driving with Care.
- Are recommended to take DUI education during chemical assessments: Professionals conducting chemical assessments may recommend Driving with Care as part of a comprehensive approach to address substance use concerns.
- Seek a recognized and reputable DUI education program: Driving with Care is widely accepted by Minnesota courts and probation offices, making it a reliable choice for fulfilling legal requirements.
Why Choose Driving with Care?
Driving with Care stands out as the premier choice for DUI education in Minnesota for several compelling reasons:
- Court and Probation Acceptance: Completing the Driving with Care program ensures that Minnesota courts and probation offices will recognize and accept your DUI education certificate.
- Gold Standard in Minnesota: It is increasingly recognized as the “gold standard” for DWI education, with many Minnesota district courts prioritizing cognitive-based programs like Driving with Care over shorter, less comprehensive alternatives.
- Increasingly Mandated: Probation offices across numerous Minnesota counties, including Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, Washington, Anoka, Scott, Carver, and even the Minnesota Department of Corrections, are increasingly requiring Driving with Care for DUI offenders. Enrolling in this program ensures compliance and avoids potential issues with your probation requirements.
Driving with Care Curriculum Levels
Driving With Care™ offers a tiered curriculum to meet diverse needs and offense levels:
Level 1 Education
- Duration: 6 lessons, 12 hours.
- Target Audience: First-time DUI offenders, unless BAC was exceptionally high. Individuals without a history of diagnosed alcohol or drug disorders.
- Focus: Prevention of re-arrest and future substance-related issues through comprehensive alcohol awareness education.
Level 2 Education
- Duration: 12 lessons, 24 hours.
- Target Audience: Repeat DUI offenders and those requiring a more in-depth program.
- Focus: Builds upon Level 1, with added emphasis on strategies and techniques to help repeat offenders reduce the risk of problematic drinking and re-offending.
Level 2 Therapy
- Duration: 21 lessons, 42 hours.
- Target Audience: Individuals with more significant alcohol or drug misuse issues and related psychosocial challenges who may require treatment.
- Focus: A more intensive intervention including a customized treatment plan to address deeper underlying issues contributing to impaired driving.
Benefits of Online Driving with Care
Driving with Care understands the challenges of scheduling and accessibility. Therefore, DUI and DWI classes are conveniently offered online through secure video conferencing, also known as telehealth.
Convenience and Flexibility
Online classes eliminate the need to travel to a physical location, saving you time and transportation costs. You can participate from the comfort and privacy of your own home, or any location with internet access, using a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer with a webcam and microphone. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing you to progress at your own pace and work around your existing schedule.
Privacy
Online classes offer an added layer of privacy, which can be particularly appealing for individuals who prefer a discreet approach to fulfilling their DUI education requirements.
Safe Driving Practices in Minnesota
While participating in a Driving with Care program is crucial after a DUI/DWI, adopting safe driving habits is essential for preventing future incidents. Here are key safe driving tips:
- Eliminate Distractions: Avoid using cell phones or electronic devices while driving.
- Always Use Seatbelts: Seatbelts are proven to save lives and significantly reduce injury risk.
- Maintain Awareness: Constantly scan your surroundings, checking mirrors every few seconds.
- Adhere to Speed Limits: Driving at appropriate speeds for conditions reduces accident risk.
- Avoid Tailgating: Maintain a safe following distance to allow for adequate braking time.
Minnesota DUI/DWI Statistics
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety highlights the prevalence of DUI/DWI in the state. In 2017, there were over 24,000 DWI arrests, averaging 68 per day. Alarmingly, one in seven Minnesota adults has a DUI on record, and nearly half of first-time offenders are re-arrested, underscoring the need for effective education programs like Driving with Care to combat recidivism.
Minnesota DUI/DWI Laws
Minnesota law outlines varying degrees of DUI/DWI offenses. First-time offenders typically face Fourth-Degree misdemeanor charges, carrying potential jail time and fines. Aggravating factors, such as high BAC levels (0.16 or higher), having a minor in the vehicle, or driving with a canceled license due to prior DUIs, can increase the severity of charges. Repeat offenses can even lead to felony charges.
Ready to Enroll in Driving with Care?
If you are seeking a court-approved, comprehensive, and effective DUI education program in Minnesota, Driving with Care is your ideal solution. Contact us today at 651.829.2880 to learn more and enroll. Take the first step towards fulfilling your requirements and developing safer driving habits with Driving with Care.
