In Houston and throughout the state of Texas, underage motorists who drive under the influence of alcohol are becoming a serious concern. So serious, in fact, that the anti-drunk driving organization Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has recently called out Texas youth and their inability to significantly reduce the amount of drunk driving accidents on Texas roadways.

In a recent study conducted by MADD – Texas, underage drivers throughout the state were surveyed about drunk driving. According to the study, roughly 62 percent of drivers under the age of 21 reported that they get their information about drunk driving from TV or school. As it has been shown that children are more likely to listen to their parents about the dangers of underage drinking and driving, MADD has stated that these figures are concerning and that parents in Texas need to talk to their children about these issues.

Even more concerning than the fact that Texas youth aren't receiving the type of education they need from their parents is that drunk driving – as well a driving under the influence of drugs – continues to kill numerous people throughout Texas each year. According to MADD, teen alcohol use kills 5,000 people a year across the country. As revealed in statistics published by the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 88 fatalities directly related to traffic accidents caused by drunk drivers who were under the age of 21 in 2012. Last year in Harris County, there were 17 alcohol-related fatalities involving underage drivers.

These alarming statistics have alerted officials from MADD – Texas that "Texas teens are not getting the message." As such, MADD is encouraging parents throughout the state to talk to their children about the dangers of impaired driving. MADD has also compiled a resource entitled the Power of Parents to help keep local youth safe from the dangers of underage drinking and get parents involved.

The Daspit Law Firm is Here to Answer Your Questions

Regardless of the age of the motorist, drunk driving is an extremely negligent and dangerous act. Individuals who make the decision to get behind the wheel while under the influence can be held responsible for the harm they cause and victims have every right to pursue a recovery of their damages. If you would like more information about personal injury claims and drunk driving accidents, please contact a Houston personal injury lawyer from The Daspit Law Firm by requesting a free, initial case consultation or by calling (888) 273-1045.