Drunk driving is a serious problem in Kansas. According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, in 2021, alcohol-impaired driving fatalities accounted for 22.5% of total traffic fatalities in the state. In 2021, the report states there were 2,158 crashes involving alcohol, resulting in 86 deaths.
Kansas has implemented stringent DUI laws against drunk driving to combat the issue. Despite these efforts, drunk driving is still a problem in the state, and everyone needs to recognize the dangers of driving under the influence.
The History of Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is a non-profit organization and movement founded in 1980 by Candy Lightner after a drunk driver tragically killed her 13-year-old daughter.
Lightner’s daughter was walking home from a school carnival when she was struck and killed by a repeat offender who had been drinking. Lightner was enraged by the injustice and decided to do something to help prevent future tragedies like this one. She quickly organized a grassroots organization to raise awareness of the dangers of drunk driving and to advocate for tougher laws and stricter enforcement of existing laws.
In Kansas, MADD has been active for more than 40 years. In that time, the organization has been instrumental in creating and enforcing laws dedicated to reducing the number of alcohol-related incidents on the road. Matt Bretz sits on the national board of directors, volunteering his time to ensure that the MADD mission succeeds.
The organization also works to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving through public campaigns and educational resources. MADD is a visible presence in Kansas by providing support to victims and their families. Additionally, MADD works to create campaigns for underage drinking prevention, ignition interlock laws, and other initiatives in a concentrated effort to reduce the amount of alcohol-related deaths and injuries on the roads. Today, MADD is an influential and respected organization that continues to fight against drunk driving and bring attention to this important issue.
MADD’s Advocacy for Stricter DUI Laws and Penalties
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is an organization that works to end drunk driving and advocates for stricter DUI laws and penalties to help reduce the number of drunk driving deaths and injuries. MADD believes harsher penalties are necessary to deter people from driving while intoxicated and to protect the public from the dangers of drunk drivers.
MADD advocates for stiffer penalties for DUI offenses, such as increased fines, longer license suspensions, mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices, and jail time for repeat offenders. In addition, they support the expansion of sobriety checkpoints, ignition interlock laws, emerging auto safety technology, and zero-tolerance laws for underage drinking.
MADD also works to increase public awareness about the dangers of drunk driving and ensure that all states have strong laws to prevent drunk driving. By advocating for stronger DUI laws and penalties, MADD hopes to reduce drunk driving deaths and injuries to make the roads safer for everyone.
MADD has worked with Kansas lawmakers to ensure that the Kansas DUI laws are enforced and updated as needed. MADD is a strong advocate for victims of drunk driving and works to ensure they receive the support and justice they need.
Current Kansas DUI Laws and Penalties
Under Kansas DUI laws, anyone caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be charged with a DUI. Depending on the circumstances, punishments can include jail time, fines, loss of license, or a combination of all three.
Kansas has an implied consent law, which means that anyone who operates a vehicle in the state is subject to a chemical test of their blood, breath, or urine if they are suspected of driving under the influence.
The penalties for a first-offense DUI in Kansas include a fine of up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, a 30-day license suspension, and an ignition interlock. Additionally, there may be an alcohol education program or community service requirement imposed.
For a second or subsequent offense, the punishment is more severe. The fine may increase to up to $2,500, the jail time can increase to one year or more, and the license suspension may increase to one year. The court may also require an alcohol treatment program, and the offender will be required to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle.
How can Bretz Injury Law Help?
If you’ve been injured in an accident with someone who was driving under the influence, the personal injury attorneys at Bretz Injury Law can help. Call today for a free, confidential consultation. We can help you understand your rights and seek justice.
