In a recent report released by BackgroundChecks.org, Kentucky ranked eighth on a list of states with the worst DUI problems. Using a combination of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD), BackgroundChecks.org ranked the 50 states based on the deaths directly attributable to DUIs, DUI arrests per 100,000 people, and drinking too much before driving.
The top 10 states with the worst DUI problems are Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, South Carolina, Mississippi, New Mexico, Kentucky, Maine, and Arkansas. On the other hand, the bottom 10 include Kansas, Washington, Indiana, Virginia, Rhode Island, Utah, New Jersey, Illinois, Massachusetts, and New York.
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Statistics
- In 2014, 9,967 people were killed in drunk driving crashes, which accounted for approximately 1/3 (31%) of all traffic-related deaths in the U.S.
- Also, during the same year, three times as many males were arrested for DUI as females.
- Meanwhile, in 2013, 28.7 million people admitted to drunk driving, which is more than the population of Texas.
- Each day, people drive under the influence of alcohol more than 300,000 times, but only about 3200 are arrested.
- The rate of DUI (20.7%) is highest among 26 to 29-year-olds.
DUI in Kentucky
As a Kentucky Accident Attorney, I am alarmed with the current status of Kentucky with regards to DUI problems. We cannot deny the fact that more traffic accidents caused by an impaired or drunk driver are indeed happening in the state. In fact, just last month, we have witnessed several DUI crashes. There’s one incident involving a man who drove his semi truck into an embankment at the William N. Hatcher Parkway and Scottsville Road. He was found out to be intoxicated and distracted. There’s also another accident with injury involving a woman who lost control of her vehicle, which caused it to run off the road and overturn.
DUI deaths are 100% preventable. And I believe if we could be just more responsible, we can protect and save lives. If you’ll be attending a party and you have plans of drinking, it’s best not to drive after. Have a designated driver instead or call a taxi. On the other hand, if you’ve observed drivers making wide turns, responding slowly traffic signals, or showing signs associated with drunk driving, it is highly suggested to keep a safe distance and call 911.