MADD Texas Lobbies for Stronger Laws to Prevent Drunk Driving
Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) lobbied Texas legislators in February in an effort to pass two new drunk driving laws in the state, and Frenkel & Frenkel, a Dallas law firm, supports MADD in these efforts. MADD wants Texas legislators to pass laws that would require ignition interlocks for all drunk-driving offenders and the implementation of sobriety checkpoints.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, 1,038 people died in Texas due to drunk driving in 2011, highlighting the need for urgent action.
Ignition Interlock Devicess
An ignition interlock device is a mechanism installed in the vehicle dashboard that works similarly to the device used by police officers to test blood alcohol concentration. Offenders must blow into the device to start the vehicle; if alcohol is detected, the vehicle will not start.
Many states already use ignition interlock devices and require offenders to have them installed for a set period after conviction. In Texas, only repeat offenders with a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit (0.16) are required to install the device.
According to MADD, ignition interlock devices have helped reduce repeat DUI offenses by up to 66%. The public’s support is necessary to help make Texas one of the 17 states requiring these devices for all offenders.
Sobriety Checkpoints
Currently, Texas law prohibits sobriety checkpoints under the state’s interpretation of the federal Constitution, even though 38 other states allow them. During a checkpoint, drivers are stopped methodically and screened to ensure they are not driving under the influence.
If legislation changes with public support, sobriety checkpoints could potentially save up to 262 lives each year in Texas, as they have proven to reduce drunk driving-related deaths by 20%.
How You Can Support MADD
The most effective way to support MADD’s efforts is by contacting your legislators through the links available on the MADD website.
These proposed laws could save many lives on Texas roads, and Frenkel & Frenkel strongly supports MADD in pushing for these safety measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is MADD Texas lobbying for stronger drunk-driving laws?
MADD Texas is advocating for stronger legislation to prevent drunk driving and reduce related fatalities. Their efforts focus on requiring ignition interlock devices for all convicted offenders and legalizing sobriety checkpoints across the state.
2. What is an ignition interlock device and how does it work?
An ignition interlock device is a breath-testing tool installed in a vehicle’s dashboard. A driver must blow into the device before starting the vehicle, and if alcohol is detected, the vehicle will not start. This system is designed to prevent repeat DUI offenses.
3. Are ignition interlock devices currently required in Texas?
Yes, but only in limited cases. In Texas, ignition interlock devices are currently required only for repeat offenders with a blood-alcohol level more than twice the legal limit (0.16). MADD is working to make these devices mandatory for all convicted drunk-driving offenders.
4. Why are sobriety checkpoints important?
Sobriety checkpoints allow law enforcement to stop vehicles in an organized manner to identify impaired drivers. Studies show they reduce drunk-driving deaths by approximately 20%. If legalized in Texas, they could save up to 262 lives each year.
5. How can the public support MADD’s efforts?
The best way to support MADD is by contacting Texas legislators and urging them to approve the proposed safety laws. MADD provides online tools and resources to make it easy for citizens to participate and advocate for change.
6. How many drunk-driving deaths occur each year in Texas?
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, 1,038 people died in drunk-driving accidents in 2011 alone. These high numbers demonstrate why stronger laws and safety measures are urgently needed.
7. Why does Frenkel & Frenkel support MADD?
Frenkel & Frenkel, a Dallas law firm, supports MADD because their mission aligns with improving road safety and preventing avoidable tragedies. The firm strongly advocates for laws that protect Texas families and reduce drunk-driving incidents.