Law and Criminology of Drunk Driving (From Crime and Justice: A Review of Research, V 10, P 171-229, 1988, Michael Tonry and Norval Morris, eds. -- See NCJ-111254)

• NCJ Number: 111258
• Author(s): J B Jacobs
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 58 pages
• Sale Source: University of Chicago Press
• Publication Type: Literature Review
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper reviews the literature on drunk driving; examines driving under the influence laws, enforcement, and sanctions; and examines prevention initiatives.

Abstract

Reliable information on patterns and frequency of drunk driving is difficult to obtain. The evidence suggests that drunk driving is widespread, particularly among males. Today, a set of interrelated criminal laws, procedures, and administrative laws makes it easier to arrest, convict, and punish drunk drivers. Criminal investigation and law enforcement in drunk driving cases have become simpler as previous impediments have been removed. The effectiveness of the campaign against drunk driving has been difficult to assess because of the poor quality of data, the lack of carefully planned evaluations, and difficulties in untangling the effects of simultaneous intervention programs. Some drunk driving programs seem to have short-term deterrence effects. Driver's license suspensions and revocations may play an incapacitative role. Alcohol treatment programs, however, do not appear to reduce recidivism. Public education must be directed toward changing popular attitudes and behaviors associated with alcohol consumption. 125 references. (Author abstract modified)