MADD Shares Its Vision By Enlisting the Support of the 2016 NFL Rookie Class

 Posted on September 15, 2016 in DWI / DUI

Mothers Against Drunk Driving®, or better known as MADD, is currently the largest nonprofit in the United States dedicated to protecting families from the dangers of those choosing to drive while under the influence (DUI or DWI) of alcohol or an illegal substance. Founded by Candy Lightner on May 3, 1980, following the tragic death of her daughter at the hands of a drunk driver, MADD has solidified its position as one of the most influential nonprofits spreading the word of the dangers of impaired driving.

Drunk Driving Statistics

MADD reports that every 53 minutes someone is killed in an alcohol or substance abuse related accident, and every two minutes someone is injured under the same circumstances. Through outreach and education, MADD has made itself a formidable presence in American culture and with the beginning of football season the organization is expanding its affiliation with the National Football League (NFL) by enlisting the 2016 crop of NFL rookie players.

MADD kicked off the Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving® with the NFL by embarking on a tenacious two week tour with MADD Difference Makers and an army of volunteers who had the opportunity to share data, information, and resources with 30 of the 32 NFL teams. The organization was proud to have this opportunity and share their message with those who greatly influence the present and future generations.

MADD CEO, Debbie Weir, who met with the Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers summarized the campaign as an excellent opportunity to connect with the teams as a local mission building venture but one that also may make a difference in young men's lives.

The MADD Pennsylvania Program Manager, Malcolm Friend, spent time with the rookies of the Pittsburgh Steelers and was not surprised that at least two-thirds of the group knew of someone who had been involved in an alcohol or drug-induced crash. This realization brings it home that a DWI related car accident is not always "the other person or family."

The MADD campaign was also designed to speak with the NFL rookies and their developing role as community leaders. MADD leaders spoke candidly about the ramifications of mixing alcohol and drugs with driving. The consequences and solutions were also presented to open a constructive dialogue regarding the real dangers not only to life but to their own careers and reputations. A majority of the players admitted that they already use Uber, taxis, public transportation, or a trusted designated driver.

Driving while under the influence is a 100% preventable crime but as MADD and the NFL support this vision, statistically the fatalities due to DWI crashes remain a stark reminder of the work still left to be done.

Contact a San Antonio DWI Lawyer

No one can argue that choosing to drive while under the influence is a sound decision. However, if you have been arrested for DWI suspicion, you still have legal rights. San Antonio DWI defense attorney Sam H. Lock has experience representing clients accused of drunk driving and will work diligently to ensure that your legal rights have not been violated. Contact Attorney Lock at 210-226-0965 or 210-226-0965 (local) to discuss your case today.  

Sources:

http://www.madd.org/drunk-driving/about/

http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/madd-founders-daughter-killed-by-drunk-driver

http://www.madd.org/blog/2016/july/madd-taps-nfl-rookies-to-lead.html

http://www.madd.org/drunk-driving/campaign/