Drivers Could See Stricter DWI Laws In Texas: Texas leads the nation in the number of alcohol-related deaths.

I was featured on the news (Channel 33) regarding my opinion on stricter punishments for alcohol-related law offenders:

DALLAS, TX - In an instant, Tonya Winchester's life changed when she handed her keys to a drunk driver, who ran a red light and collided with a semi-truck.

"It was just devastating. I woke up and couldn't walk," the McKinney woman, said.

Winchester was 17 and a new high school graduate when she was paralyzed from the chest down. The anti-drunk driving advocate wonders why Texas isn't doing more to get drunks off the road."

I feel like it should have already happened. I just don't understand what lawmakers are waiting on?"

But, there is renewed optimism that the wait could be over for advocates who have pushed for stricter laws against drunk driving. This week anti-drunk driving officials urged lawmakers to approve ignition interlock devices for first-time offenders. About 12 states already use the bold tactic to punish offenders.

Advocates are also calling on the legislature to approve sobriety checkpoints, which officials say have proven effective in 39 states. Some fear the checkpoints infringe on law-abiding drivers."

What those studies show is that with sobriety checkpoints there is a 20 percent decline in deaths. In Texas, that would be about 200 people every year," Bill Lewis, with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, said.

Lewis testified at hearings in Austin this week. It is the first time in more than a decade the lawmakers have held committee hearings mid-session. He says the measures to reduce drunk driving are clear cut, if lawmakers will act."

We don't have to guess at this like this is a hunch. We do know what stops drunk driving."

As for Winchester, the 25-year old shares her story with anyone who will listen, hoping to change hearts and minds. This time, she hopes lawmakers in Austin are listening."

We do need change to stop this tragedy," Winchester said.

Tongish, Dawn. "Drivers Could See Stricter DWI Laws In Texas." The 33 News. 9 July 2010. Web. 10 July 2010. http://www.the33tv.com/news/kdaf-drunk-driving-proposals-texas-story,0,6101190.story.

Click link to watch a video of the broadcasting.