Age-Associated Alcohol and Driver Risk Differences in Older Adult DUI Offenders

The aim of the study was to characterize age-group differences on the Driver Risk Inventory-II (DRI-II) in a group of driving under the influence (DUI) offenders.

Data from 11,066 DUI cases from the state of Nebraska were used. The sample was grouped by age (18-20, 21-39, 40-59, and 60-84) and compared on the subscales of the DRI-II.

Older adult DUI finders accounted for 2.90% (95% confidence interval [CI] = [2.60, 3.23]) of all DUI cases. Older adult DUI offenders not only demonstrated significantly greater Alcohol Risk scores than younger age groups but also had significantly lower Driver Risk scores than younger age groups.

The results of this study demonstrate age-related differences in alcohol and driving risk among DUI offenders. This study provides a starting point from which investigators and clinicians can further address the issue of alcohol use and driving in older adults.