New Jersey Gets Tougher on Drunk Driving

Drunk driving, which is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the state of New Jersey, is the target of latest efforts by legislators to curb the hazardous effects of irresponsible alcohol consumption. The bill would require first-time offenders convicted of DWI to install breathalyzer devices in their cars that would prevent the engine starting if the driver’s blood-alcohol level is higher than .04%, or one-half the legal limit. These devices are already required for repeat offenders and those who were caught driving with very high blood-alcohol levels.

Drunk driving is just one of the ways that alcohol has a harmful effect on individuals and society, but it’s one that is very visible for victims and offenders. In 2010, when the latest data was collected, driving while intoxicated caused 102 fatal crashes in New Jersey. Often the ones who drive drunk or the ones most in need of help to prevail against alcoholism or dependance. The new bill is designed to help rehabilitate drunk drivers, instead of simply punishing them by suspending their licenses. Hopefully those caught while driving drunk will seek help for the way they interact with alcohol as well.

Irresponsible alcohol consumption has many ill effects on society, not the least of which is deaths caused by drunk driving. If you think you or a loved one has a problem with alcohol, you should seek help before something tragic happens. Thankfully, there is good help available. Detoxification and behavioral therapy have proven to be effective in treating alcohol dependence. At Seabrook House, we customize our treatment plans to individual patient’s needs, so you know the help you’re getting is right for you or a loved one. Seabrook House has rehabilitation centers in New Jersey (NJ), Pennsylvania (PA), and an outpatient center in New York (NY). Contact Seabrook House today for any questions about alcohol, addiction, and treatment.