Youth and Its Problems (From International Conference on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety - Seventh - Proceedings, P 569-578, 1979, Ian R Johnston, ed. - See NCJ-73856)

• NCJ Number: 73885
• Author(s): A Raymond
• Date Published: 1979
• Length: 10 pages
• Publication Format: Document
• Language: English
• Country: Australia

Annotation

A composite descriptive profile of a young, Australian driver convicted of a drink-driving offense is provided; and the effect of the St. Vincent's Drivers Course upon the reconviction rates of young drivers charged with a drink-driving offense is studied.

Abstract

The article tells of a typical youth's experience in obtaining his license and of his subsequent involvement with the police and the courts after being charged with a drink-driving violation. The story illustrates the lack of instruction given to young drivers on the nature of the drink-driving laws and the scientific evidence on which these laws are based. The reconviction rates of two matched control groups composed of drivers who were convicted of drink-driving offenses but who had not taken the drivers' course, were compared with the rate of recidivism of a group of 105 drivers who had opted to take the St. Vincent's Drivers' Course in 1974. The course consisted of four (2)-hour sessions held weekly for small groups of convicted drivers under 26 years-old and covers the effects of alcohol on physical functioning and driving capabilities. Instructions in the drink-driving laws and the operation of the Breathalyzer are also included. Results showed that, in comparison to recidivism rates of 140 first offenders in one control group for periods ranging from 12 to 24 months after the prior drink-driving offense, convicted drivers who had taken the drivers' course showed significant reductions in reconvictions. Thus, of 151 first offenders who had 18 months in which to be reconvicted, 9 were, instead of an expected 15 to 22. Of 214 who had 12 months in which to be reconvicted, 7 were, instead of an expected 16 to 24. Larger term periods cannot be assessed due to insufficient data. It is concluded that initial success at reduced reconviction rates, coupled with highly positive responses from drivers who have taken the St. Vincent's course, justifies continuance of the program as a method enabling young drivers to cope with the laws on drink-driving. Two references and four figures are provided.