A study done by BackgroundChecks.org revealed that Indiana is in the top ten of states with the fewest problems with drunk driving. New York ranked first while Wyoming came in last.
Indiana’s number eight ranking comes following a year that saw 178 deaths in the state due to drunk driving, an 11.3% increase. However, the overall statistics go against the trend of drunk driving increasing nationally throughout 2016 according to the CDC and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
Indiana residents are going beyond thinking twice before getting behind the wheel. They are taking a more active role in stopping drunk driving. With cell phones prominent in all vehicles, they are reporting suspicious drivers on a daily basis. Twenty years ago, they would have had to find a pay phone or contact police when they get home.
State police Sergeant John Perrine cited his fellow Hoosiers’ commitment to obey the law. Police throughout the state claim that heavy enforcement, sobriety checkpoints, and campaigning has increased awareness of the significant consequences of an arrest, specifically costly fines and license suspension and revocation.
Other states are continuing to ramp up efforts to discourage drunk driving. Utah, which earned a number four ranking, is not resting on those laurels. State lawmakers passed legislation this week to lower the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) from 0.08 to 0.05.
The growing severity of drunk driving laws only increases the consequences of an arrest and conviction. A DUI defense attorney with comprehensive knowledge of continually changing laws is vital to protect your rights.
