MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY, (Take 30 News)---- Driving while under the influence has been a major problem across the nation.
But recent studies have shown that in the state of Mississippi DUI fatality rates have decreased.
Jean Patton was the aunt of someone who lost their life in a DUI accident.
"We went in and she was deceased she had been coming home from school that day in her Ford Expedition that's what it was and there had been a drunk driver he was a young man and he was killed also in that accident," said Patton
Over the years many people have lost loved ones to an accident where the driver was impaired.
The state of Mississippi has worked diligently to decrease the numbers and ensure that no one else has to lose a loved one that way."
A study published on Quote Wizard.com shows that Mississippi Ranks four in the largest decrease of lives lost to DUI'S by a stunning 50.99%.
State Trooper SGT. Derrick Beckom says that they will work hard to keep improving these numbers.
"We continue to work hard every day, people inside this organization, understand that we're shorthanded, but still we were going to take care of enforcement trying to maintain the safety on the highways for our public," Beckom said.
Beckom also said that being able to know that their continuous efforts are paying off is very fulfilling.
"Well, it's a great reward because that's what we want to do. Our importance is it is the safety of our citizens. So, to see the numbers, you know, drop for us it's a pat on the back within itself. And I also have to commend the public on doing things differently and making better choices as well," Beckom said.
Beckom said that they don't specifically do anything differently, but he credits rideshare apps and the public for making the job easier.
Even though significant strides have been made SGT. Beckom said the job is not done yet.
Beckom said that they still will continue to work to get the number even higher than what it is now.
"We're going to continue to patrol I mean again, even though we may be short-handed, that's not going to stop our efforts. You know, we have to work those extra hours or extra details to assure the safety of the citizens of this state then that's what we'll do," Beckom said.