Mr. and Mrs. Elliott were indeed both legally drunk at the time of this unfortunate incident. While it’s unclear which of the two was driving that fateful night, what is known (by way of autopsies, toxicology testing, a full investigation by law enforcement, and a Coroner’s Inquest) is that Mr. Elliott had a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level of .165 and Mrs. Elliott’s BAC level was .209. The threshold in Illinois for legal intoxication is .08.

What is less clear is whether driving conditions at the time of this incident (very foggy, ice-covered roadway on a dark and unfamiliar road) played a larger role in what happened than the presence of alcohol in their systems. Regardless, the alcohol was probably a contributing factor and was absolutely an aggravating factor.

“SMSI” is also correct. The best way to eliminate the chance of driving under the influence of alcohol is to never climb behind the wheel after drinking.

It’s a simple lesson, but one that needs to be driven home with a hammer: Never drink and drive.

This mistake doesn’t change the reality of what has happened, nor does it impact the importance of the need for industry, automakers, government safety officials and the general public in working together to devise a vehicle safety mechanism — and effective legislation — to reduce the number of people who die in this fashion every year.

While no amount of regulation or innovation can bring back those who have lost their lives so tragically, it will make it possible for many future victims to emerge from the water with tales of their close call — which is a worthy goal.

Again, my apologies.