Press Release: 10,000 Candles Lit on National Mall to Honor Victims of Drunk Driving
Washington, D.C. – November 2024 – In a poignant tribute to victims of drunk driving, advocates placed 10,000 candles on the National Mall, illuminating the urgent need for enhanced measures to combat this preventable tragedy. Hosted by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), the memorial served as both a remembrance for those lost and a rallying cry for legislative action on the HALT Drunk Driving Act.
This bipartisan legislation, which passed in 2021, mandates that all vehicles be equipped with anti-drunk driving safety technologies, comparable to lifesaving innovations like seatbelts, airbags, and backup cameras. Activists emphasized that the implementation of this act is crucial in reducing the alarming number of fatalities linked to impaired driving.
"The sheer number of candles represents countless lives disrupted or taken due to the reckless choices of drunk drivers," said a MADD spokesperson. "We are calling on the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) to take immediate steps to enforce regulations that could prevent these tragedies from happening in the first place."
The gathering brings together survivors, families of victims, and advocates united in their mission to increase awareness and advocate for stronger laws. MADD continues to push for the enforcement of current legislation and the introduction of new measures to ensure safety on the roads.
As the candles flickered in the night, they symbolized hope for a future where no more families have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to drunk driving. Participants left the event feeling motivated to continue their fight for justice, safety, and the protection of innocent lives from the devastating impacts of impaired driving.
For further information on the HALT Drunk Driving Act and ongoing advocacy efforts, please visit MADD’s website.
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