According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the state of Texas is among the worst states for drunk driving fatalities in the country. Some argue that these statistics are no surprise. In 2000, the NTSB issues 11 safety recommendations to curb drunk-driving fatalities across the nation. However, Texas has only enacted just a few.
Texas Fails to Enact Majority of NTSB Safe Driver Recommendations
To prevent drunk driving fatalities caused by the most serious offenders (repeat offenders and those with a blood alcohol content level above .15), the NTSB provided states, including Texas, with 11 recommendations in 2000to decrease drunk driving fatalities.
Texas has only enacted four of the recommendations including:
To score in the "acceptable" range, the NTSB recommends states enact at least eight of the recommendations.
With only four in place, Texas is considered one of the 10 worst states in the nation for drunk driving fatalities. The statistics offer additional proof - drunk drivers in the state of Texas were involved in 40 percent of fatal crashes in 2009.
Further, the Texas legislature has repeatedly failed to authorize sobriety checkpoints, which, some argue, could decrease drunk driving deaths by as much as 20 percent.
Contact a Texas Auto Accident Lawyer
Texas drivers can only hope that future legislative sessions will consider passing stricter laws that aim to punish drunk drivers and decrease alcohol related fatalities.
If you or your loved one suffered injuries due to the negligence of a drunk driver, speaking with a knowledgeable Texas automobile accident attorney is recommended. Your lawyer can explain potential legal recourse available under the law.
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