Interlock Facts

One of Mothers Against Drunk Driving's favorite talking points ("a first-time offender on average has driven drunk 87 times prior to being arrested") goes so far as to accuse Americans of criminal acts with no proof to back up the claim ("State mulls mandatory ignition devices," Oct. 6).

The truth is that the widely publicized figure is based on rough estimates from self-reported data -- commonly criticized as being unreliable -- collected from a small sample 14 years ago. Even the study's own authors admit the estimates are "crude." Yet, MADD has dubbed it "fact."

 

Before advocating for new laws, we need an accurate, up-to-date measure of drunken-driving behavior. It's reckless to act based on one thing, when the reality is another.

 

SARAH LONGWELL

Managing Director

American Beverage Institute