Aside from the obvious reasoning that repeat offenders, by definition, tend to drive impaired repeatedly, they also do so at a higher intoxication rate.

The severity of a motor vehicle crash increases exponentially with the amount of alcohol involved. This is evident in the fact that drivers with BACs exceeding .15 percent have been found 200 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash, while those with BACs of .20 percent are 460 times more likely.

Studies show that family members and friends close to chronic drinkers can make a substantial difference in the lives of their loved ones and ensure the safety of all those on the road by alerting the repeat offender to his / her destructive behavior and helping that individual work to change his / her drinking and driving habits.

For those chronic drinkers who are resistant to change, law enforcement has instituted strict, punitive measures for repeat offenders. When the loss of driving privileges and fines are not enough, authorities resort to ignition interlock devices, immobilization or even impoundment of an offender's vehicle.