Drunk driving has long been a major problem on New Mexico roads. Despite the strict criminal sanctions that drunk drivers face, the fact remains that New Mexico is among the states with the highest death rate due to drunk driving. In hopes of curtailing the drunk-driving epidemic, one New Mexico lawmaker has proposed a bill that would act to completely prevent repeat DUI offenders from purchasing alcohol.
According to a local news source discussing the recently proposed bill, a second-time DUI offender would be prohibited from purchasing alcohol. Specifically, the bill states that “an offender shall forfeit the privilege to purchase, possess or consume intoxicating liquor in the state for one year.” Those who continued to re-offend may face lifetime alcohol restrictions under the newly proposed bill.
If the bill is passed into law, all second-time and subsequent DUI offenders will be provided driver’s licenses that are visually distinct from regular adult driver’s licenses and resemble licenses for those under the legal drinking age of 21. The impetus for the bill is the lack of DUI enforcement on New Mexico roads. The article claims that New Mexico has one of the lowest arrest rates for drunk drivers, despite having one of the highest rates of drunk driving per capita.
Those opposing the bill claim that would-be drunk drivers could still obtain alcohol even if the law were passed by having friends or family members obtain the alcohol for them. Additionally, it is argued that the real problem with drunk driving is the underlying issue of addiction, and any enforcement of the criminal laws should be secondary.
The Civil Consequences of a Drunk Driving Accident
The above discussion focuses on the criminal consequences of drunk driving. However, this only represents half of the equation; there are also civil consequences of drunk driving. Specifically, those injured in a drunk driving accident are entitled to bring a negligence lawsuit against the drunk driver, seeking monetary compensation for their injuries. Anyone injured in a New Mexico drunk driving accident should consult with a dedicated personal injury attorney to discuss their case.
Have You Been Injured by a Drunk Driver in New Mexico?
If you or someone you know has been injured because of a drunk driver, you should strongly consider bringing a lawsuit to pursue the damages you suffered. One of the dedicated and experienced attorneys at the Fine Law Firm can assist you in seeking the compensation you deserve. This compensation may include payments for medical bills, property damage, and any pain and suffering you have endured as a result of the accident. Contact the Fine Law Firm at 800-640-6590 to schedule your free initial consultation today. Calling is free, and you will not be obligated to continue with your case unless it is your desire to do so.
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Premises Liability Case Brought by Injured Delivery Driver Allowed to Proceed Against Gas Station, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, February 2, 2017.
Appellate Court Declines Opportunity to Apply Government Immunity in Bicycle Accident Case Against City, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, January 11, 2017.