MADD wants interlocks for all OUI cases

BOSTON (WWLP) - The group Mothers Against Drunk Driving, or MADD, is asking lawmakers to pass an ignition interlock bill that targets first-time drunk driving offenders.

Ignition interlocks are devices that require drivers to pass a breathalyzer test to start their car. In Massachusetts, second-time offenders must complete an ignition interlock program and have the devices installed in their cars.

Anti-drunk driving supporters say the program is working; out of the almost 3,800 people in Massachusetts who have completed it, only 85 have re-offended.

“These devices save lives and reduce repeat drunk driving offences by 67%,” said Jan Withers, President of MADD.

“The problem with drunk driving, people don't see drunk driving when they take a life as murder, they see it as an accident, but when you take a life, it's murder,” said Daniel Lane, who’s mother was killed in a drunk driving crash.

MADD says that over 100 people were killed in Massachusetts in 2009 due to drunk driving crashes.

Currently there are 15 states, including Connecticut and New York, which require first time convicted drunk drivers to have ignition interlocks installed in their car.