In Montana and other states across the nation, holidays are a prime time to address the possibility of drivers who are going to get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or using drugs. Driving under the influence is a major problem year-round, but it is worse when people are off from work and celebrating with family and friends.
To address that, crackdowns are implemented. This is to prevent DUI through warnings and to catch drivers who are driving under the influence. As law enforcement moved forward with its plan, there were also ominous statistics referenced as to how many people lose their lives in a DUI accident. Drivers need to be aware of this problem and know how to stay safe.
Montana ranks among the worst for fatalities related to impaired drivers
During the recent July 4 crackdown, the Montana Department of Transportation pointed out the state’s troubling DUI statistics just as the enforcement period got underway. This was part of its ambitious Vision Zero plan to end road fatalities entirely.
The numbers include Montana having the most fatalities due to impaired drivers based on how many miles people traveled; that in 2021 the state had the worst percentage of alcohol-related fatalities at 45%; that 63% of all road deaths were due to impairment; and from 2012 through 2021, 1,268 people lost their lives in an alcohol-related accident.
Drivers caught registering a blood alcohol concentration of at least .08 will be arrested, face hefty fines, run the risk of jail time and the loss of driving privileges. Still, despite law enforcement entreaties and warnings as to the potential danger of a DUI, drivers still do it and it places people in jeopardy of catastrophic injuries and death.
Knowing if a DUI caused an accident is key when weighing options
Montana’s statistics indicate the state is one of the worst for DUI fatalities and drivers need to think about that as they head out regardless of the time of year it is. A DUI driver could swerve into another lane, operate the vehicle recklessly, drive at excessive speed and cause a severe auto accident resulting in major injuries and loss of life.
Those who have been hurt or lost a loved one should consider what steps are available after this type of incident and do everything possible to recover. That includes financially, personally, physically and emotionally. Having advice with what to do can be key with moving forward.