STRAIGHT TALK LAW: SEATTLE, WASHINGTON PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER JASON EPSTEIN ON STOPPING DRUNK DRIVERS BEFORE THEY START

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In many instances, technology is a major cause of auto accidents – particularly when drivers use their cell phones for calls or texting when behind the wheel. Now, however, two U.S. Senators have teamed up with MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) in an attempt to use new technology to avert tragedy and wrongful death instead.

Near the end of 2009, during the approach of the holiday season, which traditionally sees a spike in the number of DUI-related auto and motorcycle accidents, Senators Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.) introduced a bill requiring the use of an "ignition interlock" for convicted drunk drivers.

The ignition interlock device, when installed in a car, prevents a would-be driver from starting the vehicle unless they can pass a breathalyzer test. This device is gaining in popularity all across the country – ten states, including Washington where I practice law as a personal injury attorney in Seattle, already have laws in place requiring some degree of usage of the interlock by convicted DUI offenders who wish to drive. In the case of Washington, a drunk driver who has had their license revoked can apply for a special IIL (Ignition Interlock License), which allows them to drive any vehicle that has the interlock installed.

It’s making even more of a splash internationally. In Sweden, you’ll find the interlock is standard equipment on buses and all service vehicles – in addition, all Volvos come equipped with an interlock. Legislation was also just passed in South Australia to require serious or repeat DUI offenders to have an interlock in their cars.

The reason the interlock is becoming such a center of attention? It works. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ignition interlocks reduced re-arrest rates by an amazing 73 percent, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found wrongful deaths dropped a welcome 30 percent.

Who could argue with such a great solution to such a tremendous – and potentially lethal – problem?

Well, who else but the American Beverage Institute (ABI), which has worked against the interlock since it was first introduced. The ABI’s position is that the Senators’ new proposed bill is "the first step in a campaign to require interlock technology in all cars."

Perhaps the only reply to that argument is, “…and your point is?” But Mothers Against Drunk Driving went a bit further with their response. "We will gladly stack up the credibility of MADD versus the credibility of these groups any day," MADD President Chuck Hurley said. "Obviously, they're funded by the angry wing of the alcohol industry."

The ignition interlock looks to be an amazing weapon in the ongoing war against DUI-related auto accidents and wrongful deaths, a war that has seen much progress in recent years. Drunk driving auto accidents have declined in 40 states, as well as the District of Columbia, and the interlock, should it gain widespread acceptance, will probably add much momentum to that welcome trend.

For more free “Straight Talk Law” information, please visit my website at www.straighttalklaw.com , where you can order free books on personal injury lawyers, Washington auto accidents, auto insurance, and other valuable legal information, offered as a public service by myself and my law practice in Seattle, Washin

About the Author

Jason Epstein joined Premier Law Group as a partner in 2007. Jason is a litigator handling all types of personal injury cases with an emphasis on serious plaintiff’s personal injury and insurance coverage. Jason is a member of the Washington State Association for Justice and serves within its leadership. Jason often speaks at CLEs and serves as an arbitrator for both private and mandatory arbitration matters. Jason completed a certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution from the Strauss Institute of Dispute Resolution and the Trial Advocacy program through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy. Jason has been dedicated to representing injured people since 1999. Jason Epstein has been representing individuals against insurance companies and large corporations since 2001. He limits his practice to personal injury and wrongful death cases including auto accidents, motorcycle accidents, or other serious and catastrophic injuries. Hopefully you have already visited StraightTalkLaw.com. This website is loaded with tons of information, and is constantly updated to keep you informed of recent developments. You can also stay up to date by following the blogs which are linked toStraightTalkLaw.com Jason understands that providing the best legal representation to his clients means limiting the number of cases he accepts. He takes fewer cases so he has more time for you. By limiting his caseload, Mr. Epstein is able to give each client and each case the time and attention that they deserve. If you would like to see if your case qualifies for Mr. Epstein to represent you, please contact us throughStraightTalkLaw.com, request one or more of Jason’s books, or call us toll free at (888) 333-1873.

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