A recent report released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has revealed a troubling trend in alcohol-related traffic fatalities. According to the report, more than 13,000 people lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes for the second consecutive year.
MADD CEO Stacey D. Stewart expressed her concern, stating, "For the second year, we are learning that drunk driving took the lives of more than 13,000 people, a level we had not seen since 2007. We are losing children, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and people we love to tragic and avoidable crashes."
In response to these alarming statistics, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is advocating for the implementation of technology to prevent impaired driving in all new vehicles. Stewart emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, "Victims and survivors fought hard for the HALT Act, and technology is available that can meet the law’s requirements. This latest NHTSA report underscores that implementing impaired driving prevention technology is vitally important for the safety of our communities."
The NHTSA was directed to establish a rule by November 2024, mandating auto manufacturers to integrate passive impaired driving prevention technology into new passenger vehicles. This initiative, known as the HALT Drunk Driving Act, aims to reduce the number of alcohol-related fatalities and promote safer roads.
Stewart urged individuals to take responsibility for ending impaired driving, stating, "We also ask everyone to join us in our mission to end impaired driving by making the right choice to never drink and drive. Each one of us can make a difference today."
Despite some states seeing a decrease in drunk driving deaths in 2022, the overall number of alcohol-related fatalities remains a significant concern. MADD continues its efforts to combat drunk driving and support victims of these preventable tragedies.
The organization, founded in 1980, has been at the forefront of the fight against drunk driving, advocating for stricter laws and supporting victims and survivors. Through their Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving®, MADD aims to further reduce drunk driving deaths and promote safer road practices.
For more information on Mothers Against Drunk Driving and to support their cause, visit www.madd.org.
