Every year in Santa Fe, New Mexico, new DWI bills are introduced, but not many of them actually make it to law. A recent news report in New Mexico discussed the influence that the group Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) has on legislators and the bills that make it into law. As the article notes, one way that MADD brings attention to DWI deaths is through the annual March of Sorrow. The DWI March of Sorrow remembers DWI accident victims and happens once every year. It is in its sixth consecutive year.
One local news report recounts an incident where a woman who was riding on a motorcycle was hit by a drunk driver. After some time, the woman discovered that the individual who ran a stop sign and hit her and her boyfriend was only 15 years old. Fortunately, the woman and her boyfriend were not killed in the accident. However, this is an anomaly, especially in cases where motorcycles are involved.
This particular woman called for stricter penalties and laws against repeat offenders. MADD agrees and has expressed its support in penalties that include a focus on treatment in addition to closing the loopholes that can lead to dismissal based on a technicality.
DWI Accidents and Deaths in New Mexico
Although New Mexico has been experiencing some benefits since the implementation of the ignition interlock device, there are still a significant number of deaths because of those individuals who drive while intoxicated.
As was discussed above, MADD has taken the initiative to introduce new laws regarding driving while intoxicated, and one of those includes stricter penalties when children are involved. MADD has petitioned New Mexico law enforcement and lawmakers to protect children when they are traveling with someone who is driving while they are intoxicated.
In the past year, there have been about 93 fatalities because of drunk driving, which accounts for 30% of all traffic-related deaths. Although this is a decrease from previous years, the number is still daunting. Statistics indicate that taxpayers have subsidized drunk driving fatalities to the tune of about $465 million. Furthermore, an analysis of drunk driving incidents in the past year show that there are about 54,033 third-time offenders and 13,717 fifth-time offenders.
Liability in Drunk Driving Deaths
The statistics above show the devastating number of individuals who are killed in drunk driving fatalities. This does not even include those who are severely or permanently injured because of a drunk driver. It is important that victims and their families know that if they have been injured in a drunk driving accident, they can bring a civil claim against the drunk driver. Through a civil claim, accident victims can hold those responsible accountable for the damage and injuries that they have suffered.
Have You Been Injured Because of a Drunk Driver?
If you or a loved one has been injured because of a drunk driver, you may consider bringing a lawsuit against the culpable party. These types of accidents can be emotionally draining, and the assistance of an attorney is indispensable. An attorney can provide you with information regarding your rights and remedies and discuss negotiations with the defendant or their attorney. You may be entitled to monetary compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses and, in certain cases, burial expenses, punitive damages, and compensation for loss of companionship. Contact the Fine Law Firm at (505) 243-4541 to schedule a free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Hospital Attempts to Get Case Dismissed Because of Statute of Limitations, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, January 20, 2015.
Skateboarder Hit and Killed in Fatal DUI Accident in New Mexico, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, February 25, 2015.