CNN has an overview of the current state of punishments for drivers caught speeding and driving under the influence for the first time. The ultimate point of the story is that first-time speeders and first-time DUI offenders face ever-increasing fines and punishments. The story also points out the often missed fact that the legal consequences of speeding and DUI are just the beginning. People charged with DUIs and traffic citations also face increased insurance costs. For people convicted of DUI, it is often a misdemeanor that is considered a conviction that remains on your criminal record (unless you are able to get it expunged).
To read the story, go to:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/11/05/aa.first.time.fines/