Alcohol-Related Traffic Deaths Continue to RiseApril 28, 2003
Research Summary
For the third year in a row alcohol-related traffic deaths have increased, following a decade of decline, the Associated Press reported April 24.According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-related deaths rose 3 percent, to 17,970, in 2002.
Overall, traffic fatalities increased 1.7 percent to 42,850 last year, the highest level since 1990, when the death total was 44,599.
"It is painfully clear that recent public and political complacency is taking its toll on precious lives," said Wendy Hamilton, president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
MADD is urging states to pass tougher penalties for repeat offenders and approve primary seatbelt laws.
The report's preliminary figures are based on data collected by police at accident scenes. The final 2002 report is expected in August.
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