Massachusetts is home to approximately 6.7 million people. In addition to residents, many others visit the state for one reason or the next throughout the year.

An Increase in Drunk Driving Occurrences

Just the same as every other state, Massachusetts has laws in place to protect against drunk driving. Unfortunately, this hasn’t put a stop to this dangerous activity.

According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, there were 118 drunk driving fatalities in the state last year, which represents roughly 36% of all traffic deaths. If that statistic isn’t enough to open your eyes, here is one shared by The Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility: there were 8,541 driving under the influence arrests in 2012. That works out to more than 700 per month.

Other drunk driving statistics in and around the Boston area include:

  • The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in the state is 0.08%. Driving under the influence with a BAC higher than this can lead to operating while intoxicated charges.
  • Ignition interlock devices prevented an estimated 31,845 occurrences of drunk driving from 2006-2016.
  • Boston is known for being one of the strictest when it comes to drunk driving conviction rates.
  • Males are two times more likely to drive while under the influence than when compared to females.

Some studies do show that the state’s strict rules for driving under the influence have helped reduce the OWI rates. The state was recently ranked 48th for overall drunk driving occurrences, as recent as 2018. However, the state is still a concern when it comes to certain occasions of driving under the influence.

For example, the state is ranked sixth for daytime DUIs and OWIs, specifically regrading brunches with alcohol served.

The Risks of Driving Under the Influence in Boston

It is not uncommon for a person driving under the influence to cause a car accident. Furthermore, an accident causes injuries or can kill innocent people.

The person who decides to get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol can also harm themselves, or their own passengers. Drunk drivers may also be met with significant legal consequences, including a criminal record and potential jail time. The legal fines associated with drinking and driving can also be expensive.

Despite the best effort of law enforcement officials in Massachusetts, there is no way to eliminate drinking and driving. The best they can hope for is to reduce the number of people who drive while intoxicated. If you are involved in a car accident that involved drinking and driving, you may have legal options available. Driving while under the influence of alcohol can be considered negligent.

Whether you are dealing with potential charges or you were injured following a driver’s negligence, including drunk driving, discuss your case with a lawyer as soon as possible.