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As the holiday season progresses, KSL hopes those inclined to imbibe alcohol refrain from driving after they've been drinking.
Utah has made good progress on this issue in recent years. State laws have been strengthened, enforcement intensified and awareness increased. As a result, Utah registered the lowest rate of alcohol-related traffic deaths in the nation last year. Still, dozens died and many more suffered injury and distress because of drunken drivers.
More can and must be done to combat this terrible societal scourge! Nationally, Mothers Against Drunk Driving has launched a campaign to have states pass laws to require first-offenders to have ignition interlock devices installed on their vehicles.
Good idea!
A law passed earlier this year by Utah lawmakers took a step in that direction - requiring interlock devices after a second offense - but zero tolerance seems a better approach.
Additionally in Utah, more should be done to combat underage drinking. It's a problem! Eleven percent of those arrested last year for driving under the influence were under the age of 21.
While KSL joins responsible citizens across the state in welcoming the progress that's being made, we realize that one DUI caused death or injury is one too many.
Meantime, we remind one and all to party safely this holiday season.
