When it comes to drunk driving, Wisconsin is often thought of as the worst state in the Midwest. Wisconsin does have some concerning DUI numbers, but Minnesota isn’t too far behind. In fact, we actually outrank Wisconsin in a number of drunk driving-related categories. This shouldn’t come as a surprise considering that roughly 1 in 7 Minnesota drivers has a DUI on their record.
So how do Minnesota and Wisconsin stack up against one another when it comes to drinking and driving? We explore the answer in today’s blog.
DUIs in Minnesota and Wisconsin
Drunk driving is a big problem in both Minnesota and Wisconsin, but how do these states compare to one another? For starters, let’s take a look at this infographic.
So what can we learn from this data? Here are some of the takeaway points:
- Minnesota is doing much better at reducing the number of fatal car accidents involving drunk drivers, as they had less than half the number of alcohol-related driving fatalities as Wisconsin did in 2016.
- In Wisconsin, you’re nearly four times more likely to be incarcerated for your DUI conviction than in Minnesota, which may play a role in the next stat.
- Minnesota had more repeat and chronic (More than four DUIs) offenders over the last five years than Wisconsin.
- According to the data, only about 3 percent of individuals arrested for DUI in Minnesota are eventually incarcerated for the crime. In Wisconsin, it’s about 9%.
Both Wisconsin and Minnesota have plenty of work to do when it comes to preventing drunk driving, especially when you consider how many people aren’t caught by police. If you know you are going to be drinking, make plans to get home before you start so you don’t make a poor decision down the road. And if you’re caught drinking and driving in Minnesota, make sure you seek legal counsel, because the penalties can be severe, even if you don’t go to jail. Reach out to the experienced lawyers at Appelman Law Firm today.
