Close

National Transportation Safety Board Wants Alcohol Legal Limit Lowered

Everyone knows that they shouldn't get behind the wheel of their car after drinking in Middlesex County and yet many people continue to do it. Such behavior can lead to car accidents where innocent people are killed or left with life-threatening and life-altering injuries. While Massachusetts has taken action to discourage these drivers with penalties that include license suspension for a first offense of drunk driving, ignition interlocks for repeat offenders, and vehicle confiscation, driving while under the influence of alcohol still continues to be a big problem.

The numbers in Massachusetts

Just recently an accident, involving alcohol, occurred in Fall River, leaving a victim with a head injury according to The Herald News. Apparently, he ran a red light and crashed into the victim's vehicle. The drunk driver is facing several charges including operating under the influence second offense, indicating that he has been caught drinking and driving before.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving share the following statistics about Massachusetts:

  • 34 percent of all traffic fatalities in the state are related to drunk driving.
  • 22,253 people in the state have been convicted of drunk driving at least three times.
  • 4,840 people have been convicted of drunk driving on at least five occasions.
  • 114 people have died in drunk driving accidents within the past year.

The number of people with more than two drunk-driving convictions is alarming because it shows a general disregard for the safety of others and this puts people at risk of serious injury or worse.

Lowering the legal limit would save lives

The National Transportation Safety Board feels that lowering the current legal limit could save up to 1,000 lives every year according to NBC News. In May this year the NTSB recommended that all states initiate legislation to change the blood alcohol content level from 0.08 to 0.05. This would put the United States on the same track as dozens of other countries that already have set the legal limit at 0.05.

While the American Beverage Institute has spoken out against the recommendation, studies have shown that many people exhibit signs of being impaired well before their BAC reaches the current legal limit. Studies also reveal that across the country, the number of people who drink and drive is in the millions. It is unknown whether Massachusetts lawmakers are considering presenting such legislation anytime soon.

Keeping more drunk drivers off the road

Some argue that lowering the BAC would do nothing to discourage the heavy drinkers from getting behind the wheel of their car but if enacting a lower legal limit encourages more people to refrain from driving after consuming alcohol then it seems that it would be worth it. People who are injured by drunk drivers often face monumental challenges including lost income, medical costs, months of rehabilitation and even permanent disability.

If you have been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you should discuss your case with an experienced attorney and learn how you may be able to hold that driver financially accountable for their actions.


Client Reviews
★★★★★
Could not have been happier with Attorney Peter Bellotti and everyone at Bellotti Law Group. I had a very difficult case, but Peter was relentless. He saved me and my family, big time, when the situation looked very bad. I was recommended to Peter and was told he was the best attorney in Boston and now I see why, 100%. Thank you Peter! John F.
★★★★★
I was referred to Attorney Bellotti by a friend who works at Harvard University. I was really nervous at the beginning of my case but Peter kept me calm and was very reassuring and even gave me his cell phone number to text or call him if I really needed to get in touch with him asap… My case went extremely well and my family and I could not have been more please. I highly recommend Attorney Peter Bellotti. Beth A.
★★★★★
Attorney Bellotti assisted me in a Magistrate matter in Palmer District Court. He was very professional, knowledgeable, had excellent communication skills, well prepared, and new how to handle the situation. I would highly recommend Attorney Bellotti for any litigation matters and he gets the job done. Arlon B.
★★★★★
When looking for an attorney I didn't think have to think twice about who to call to protect my future. Peter Bellotti's amazing reputation made it an easy decision for who to call. He went above and beyond in my case, returning phone calls promptly, answering all my questions to ease my mind, and being a very understanding caring person. Patrick
★★★★★
I was on a case with Peter that spanned over a year and a half. Peter was very accommodating and set early expectations which helped get through this time period. Peter's professionalism helped keep me calm during this full time period. It was a pleasure getting to know Peter and if I ever need another lawyer in and around Boston Peter would be my go to choice hands down. Kyle
Contact Us
Start Chat