NCJ Number
76833
Journal
Accident Analysis and Prevention Volume: 11 Issue: 4 Dated: (1979) Pages: 275-291
Date Published
1979
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study evaluated the traffic safety impact of California's 12-month alcohol abuse treatment program for drivers convicted of multiple driving-under-the-influence offenses. The legislation offers treatment as an alternative to mandatory license suspension or revocation.
Abstract
Driving records were compared for drivers who were convicted of multiple offenses. Two groups of drivers were identified in four demonstration counties which offered the treatment program. The first group participated in the program and thereby retained their driving privilege, while the second did not participated and thus received the mandated licensing action. Since legislation underlying the program prevents drivers from being randomly assigned to treatment or licensing action, a third group of suspended or revoked drivers were identified for four systematically selected comparison counties. Analysis of covariance and survival rate analytical procedures were employed to analyze the driving records 12 months subsequent to the drivers' entrance into the treatment program or to receipt of the licensing action. In general, the treatment program demonstrated no advantages over mandatory licensing controls. A superior strategy, which would include treatment as a component for dealing with offenders, is suggested. It would probably require a treatment assignment procedure more customized to the individual driver along with the imposition of a licensing action. The licensing controls could be systematically relaxed over the term of successful treatment participation, thus encouraging the drivers' commitment to the program. Related studies are reviewed. Data tables and a 22-item reference list are included. (Author abstract modified)