According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2010, over 10,000 people were killed in car crashes that involved alcohol - which amounts to one fatal crash every 51 minutes. The agency also reports that, despite the fact that the legal blood alcohol limit in the United States is .08, 70 percent of these deadly accidents involved drivers who had a blood alcohol level of .15 or higher.
Ignition Interlock Devices
In order to help prevent drunk driving accidents, many states require that those who are convicted of DUI install ignition interlock systems on all of their vehicles.
These devices, which the driver must pay to have installed and maintained, are designed to prevent an intoxicated driver from starting his or her car. This is done by a sensor in the device, which monitors the driver's breath before the car will start. If the driver has a blood alcohol level over the legal limit, the car will not start.
In addition, the ignition interlock periodically monitors the driver's breath while the car is being operated - and will stop the vehicle if it senses that the driver is intoxicated.
Enforcement Initiatives in Oklahoma
In order to increase the visibility of law enforcement on Oklahoma's roads, a recent state initiative cracked down on speeding, impaired driving, and wearing a seat belt. During the campaign, which was organized by the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the NHTSA, more law enforcement officers were on the roads looking for those who commit these traffic violations.
Experts say that measures like these are necessary because of the high number of deadly car crashes that take place on Oklahoma's roads. In 2010, almost 500 people died in motor vehicle accidents around the state and 33 percent of those accidents were caused by a motorist driving under the influence of alcohol. In addition to impaired driving speed is also a concern, 28 percent of the deadly crashes that occurred in 2010 were caused because a motorist was speeding.
Know Your Rights
After an accident, it is hard to regain your bearings. Figuring out whether the driver who caused the accident was impaired may not be readily apparent. In other cases, law enforcement may become involved and charge the impaired driver with DUI.
If injured in an accident contact an experienced Norman personal injury attorney. An attorney with a firm understanding of insurance and the laws governing drunk driving in Oklahoma can advise of all available remedies especially when disabling injuries are involved.
