Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that puts the lives of everyone on the road in danger. In Pima County, Arizona, DUI citations have been a concern for many years, with a significant number of accidents resulting in fatalities. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the number of DUI citations in Pima County, Arizona that end in the death of a car accident victim.
The number of DUI crashes in Arizona
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, there were 4,854 alcohol-related crashes in Arizona in 2020, resulting in 2,146 injuries and 246 fatalities. Of those crashes, 247 occurred in Pima County, resulting in 91 injuries and 18 fatalities. While this number is lower than the statewide statistics, any number of fatalities is too many.
When it comes to DUI citations in Pima County, the number is concerning. According to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, there were 1,292 DUI arrests made in 2020. Of those arrests, 99 involved accidents that resulted in injuries and 10 resulted in fatalities. This means that nearly 8% of all DUI arrests in Pima County in 2020 resulted in a fatality.
It’s important to note that these statistics only account for DUI citations and arrests made by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Other law enforcement agencies in the county may have made additional arrests for DUI-related offenses. Additionally, not all accidents involving alcohol are necessarily classified as DUI accidents, so these numbers may not capture the full extent of the problem.
The consequences of DUIs in Arizona
The consequences of driving under the influence can be devastating, both for the individual who makes the choice to drink and drive and for innocent victims who may be injured or killed as a result. In addition to facing criminal charges, those who are responsible for causing accidents while under the influence can also face civil lawsuits and other legal consequences.
The best way to prevent DUI accidents and fatalities is to make the responsible choice to never drink and drive. If you plan to consume alcohol, arrange for a designated driver, use a ride-sharing service, or plan to stay the night wherever you are. It’s also important to be vigilant and report suspected drunk drivers to law enforcement.
In conclusion, the number of DUI citations in Pima County, Arizona that end in the death of a car accident victim is a serious issue. While the number of fatalities is lower than the statewide statistics, even one fatality is too many. By making responsible choices and reporting suspected drunk drivers, we can all help prevent these tragic accidents from happening.