Drunk driving is a serious issue on the roads of this nation, including New York. According to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, there were 8,633 alcohol-related crashes in 2012. Of those, 358 persons lost their lives and 6,303 people were injured.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been working with 15 automakers through what’s called the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS). The main efforts have focused on improving technology in motor vehicles that would prevent impaired motorists from driving.
Recently, an announcement was made that this program will extend for another five years. The hope is to implement a system that can reliably and accurately detect when a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) level has exceeded 0.08. This would then prevent the driver from operating the motor vehicle. All states consider someone with a BAC higher than 0.08 to be legally intoxicated.
Each time a vehicle is started, the Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) would detect if the driver is intoxicated. The goal is to create a system that isn’t intrusive to those who aren’t impaired. Work on the system has so far been promising, according to a NHTSA release. But it will take time before it can successfully be used in motor vehicles.
NHTSA indicates that in 2012 they saw a 4.6 percent increase in the number of alcohol-related fatalities. The agency believes it’s time to take advantage of the various technologies available to prevent drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel.
Seeking Compensation When a Drunk Driver Causes Serious Injuries or Death
If you or someone you love has been seriously or fatally injured by a drunk driver, contact an attorney with Gacovino, Lake & Associates today. A lawsuit may address the losses and help in recovery of damages. Call 800-550-0000 to set up a consultation.
