Will ENDWI Help New Mexico Reduce DWI Accidents?
November 13, 2025
New Mexico DWI Statistics
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in New Mexico. Yet, despite the fact that New Mexico ranks second in number of fatalities involving a drunk driver per 100,000 with an average of 7.2 deaths, according to Consumer Affairs. On top of that, 33% of the traffic deaths in New Mexico involve a drunk driver.
While the New Mexico DWI statistics are staggering, it’s important to note that the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) is doing what it can to quell the sheer number of DWI-related injuries and deaths throughout the state. This includes an on-going initiative known as ENDWI.
In The Article
What is ENDWI?
ENDWI is an initiative in New Mexico designed to reduce and potentially end DWI crashes that lead to fatalities and injuries. With campaigns and services “promoting designated drivers, safe rides, and responsible alcohol consumption,” NDWI partners with law enforcement to help protect New Mexican citizens. According to NDWI’s 2023 press release, in 2022 alone, 945 people sustained injuries in 2,233 car crashes in New Mexico.
In July, NMDOT launched it’s new “Are You Serious?” campaign that “aims to raise awareness of dangerous driving behaviors particularly those involving alcohol and drugs through humor and relatable storytelling.” The argument is that humor, fun sketches, and storytelling can help audience members better remember the information delivered to them and take the edge off from the often somber material.
In addition to the programs and campaigns, ENDWI also has a Drunk Busters hotline, which allows -drivers to report other drivers who are suspected of driving while intoxicated. If you suspect someone is driving while intoxicated, call 877-394-4258 or dial 9-1-1.
How Can We End Drunk Driving in New Mexico?
Drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can have a ripple effect, damaging the lives of the drivers, victims, and their families. While NMDOT is working hard to educate and aid New Mexicans in avoiding driving while intoxicated, there are things we can do to help in the efforts.
Here are some great ways to do your part in ending drunk driving in New Mexico:
Prepare for the Fun
If you know you’re going out, and you plan on drinking, be sure to have a designated driver or a place to sleep lined up. Do everything you can to avoid getting behind the wheel if you’ve had too much to drink.
Don’t Assume You Know Your Limit
Calculating how much you “know” you can drink before becoming “too drunk to drive” is a dangerous game. Alcohol affects everyone differently, and the amount you’ve had to eat, the physical activity you’ve done while drinking, and other factors can affect how any body responds to alcohol, so be careful.
Be Prepared Not to Drink
If your plans fall through with your designated driver or your place to stay, it’s important to stop drinking immediately, and find alternative transportation home.
Don’t Fall for Peer Pressure
It may seem like a silly thing to think about as an adult, but peer pressure is something that people of all ages experience. If you cut yourself off, you may experience the peer pressure of someone telling you to just have one more. Don’t do it. Know your limits and set boundaries with the people you’re with. If you say no to drinking, make sure they know that means you’re done.
What to Do If You’ve Been Hit by a Drunk Driver
If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver in Albuquerque or anywhere in New Mexico, the very first thing you should do is get to safety, if possible. If your car is on the road and able to be moved, clear the road in the safest way possible. If the driver drove away or is trying to drive away, call 9-1-1 immediately, and try to get their license plate number.
Seek medical attention if you’ve been injured. If you’re able to, collect the information from the other driver and any witnesses who may have seen the crash. Additionally, be sure to file a police report either at the scene or as soon as possible afterwards.
Contact a drunk driving lawyer. Ron Bell Injury Lawyers works hard to protect injured people from getting taken advantage of by big insurance companies, even if drunk drivers are involved. We go above and beyond for our clients because we care. We review medical records, help you get appointments scheduled, investigate the circumstances surrounding the drunk driving accident, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Ring the Bell to get a personal injury lawyer who fights for you.
