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Breath alcohol ignition interlock devices: controlling the recidivist.
Richard A Raub1, Roy E Lucke, Richard I Wark
1Northwestern University Center for Public Safety, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA. raraub@northwestern.edu
Traffic Injury Prevention
|June 28, 2006
Summary
Breath alcohol ignition interlock devices significantly reduce driving under the influence (DUI) arrests while installed. However, effectiveness wanes upon removal, highlighting the need for longer installation periods.
Area of Science:
- Traffic Safety
- Alcohol Impairment Research
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Restricted driving permits are issued to individuals with revoked licenses due to alcohol-impaired driving.
- Eligibility criteria included multiple driving under the influence (DUI) offenses or severe alcohol dependence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare recidivism rates between drivers with and without ignition interlock devices.
- To assess the long-term effectiveness and program reach of ignition interlock devices.
Main Methods:
- Comparative study of two driver groups in Illinois with revoked licenses.
- One group was mandated to use breath alcohol ignition interlock devices; the other served as a control.
Main Results:
- Drivers with ignition interlock devices showed a fivefold reduction in DUI arrests during the device's installation year.
- Recidivism rates returned to baseline levels after device removal.
- Only 16% of eligible drivers participated in the voluntary program.
- Individuals removed from the program and returned to revoked status had high rates of subsequent crashes or DUI arrests.
Conclusions:
- Ignition interlock devices are effective in preventing impaired driving while in use.
- Limited program participation and short installation durations hinder widespread impact.
- Extended device installation is recommended until sustained sobriety is demonstrated.