Teen DUI Crash Leaves Man Critical, as MADD Urges Community to Act
A recent teen DUI crash in Honolulu has left a man in his 20s in critical condition, prompting Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to call on the community to take action. According to Honolulu police, the man was hit by an alleged drunk teen who was driving the wrong way. The 19-year-old driver was also taken to the hospital and later arrested for DUI.
The timing of this tragic incident is particularly poignant, as it occurred just before MADD’s annual 5k fundraising walk in Kakaako. Tess Rowland, MADD’s National President, shared her own harrowing experience with drunk driving, emphasizing that it is not an accident or a mistake, but a choice. Rowland revealed that she had been hit head-on by a wrong-way drunk driver with drugs in the car, resulting in multiple surgeries and a lifetime of chronic pain.
The gravity of the situation is further highlighted by the statistics provided by Rowland. Every 79 seconds, someone is killed or injured by a drunk driver in the county, and drunk driving incidents are on the rise. In another recent incident in Waikele, an 18-year-old man lost his life in a crash that appears to have involved alcohol.
Honolulu Prosecutor Steve Alm acknowledged the impact of organizations like MADD in promoting the designated driver movement. Their efforts have helped raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and have emphasized the importance of finding alternative transportation after consuming alcohol.
Honolulu Police reported that there have been 40 traffic deaths on Oahu so far this year, compared to 37 during the same period last year. Additionally, in 2020, there were 27 deaths statewide related to drunk driving.
MADD’s annual 5k fundraising walk in Honolulu was a success, with over 500 participants showing their support and raising $110,000. These funds will stay in Hawaii to support victims, educate the public about the dangers of impaired driving, and advance legislation to prevent drunk and drugged driving.
The morning crash that occurred prior to the fundraising walk remains under investigation by Honolulu Police.
As incidents of drunk driving continue to take a toll on communities, organizations like MADD play a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting responsible behavior. The support of law enforcement and the participation of victims further highlight the importance of making our streets safer for everyone. By working together, we can strive to prevent unnecessary crashes and save lives.
