Intervening to decrease the probability of alcohol-impaired driving: Impact of novel field sobriety tests

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Forensic Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are commonly used to assess impairment.
• Understanding the relationship between FST performance, breath alcohol content (BAC), and perceived driving risk is crucial for public safety.
• Novel FSTs require evaluation for their predictive validity and impact on risk perception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of novel FSTs in predicting BAC.
• To assess the impact of FSTs on individuals' perceptions of their driving risk.
• To examine potential demographic differences in risk perception following FST performance.

Main Methods:

• 210 participants were recruited near bars and on a college campus during late-night hours.
• Participants completed novel FSTs (hand-pat, tracing, Romberg) and rated perceived driving risk before and after testing.
• BAC was measured using a Lifeloc FC20 breathalyzer post-testing.

Main Results:

• All novel FSTs demonstrated performance significantly better than chance in predicting intoxication.
• Providing performance feedback from FSTs did not enhance participants' awareness of driving risk at their measured BAC.
• Greek-life females reported lower perceived driving risk after completing the FSTs, irrespective of their BAC.

Conclusions:

• Novel FSTs show promise in detecting impairment but do not effectively increase self-awareness of driving risks.
• The unexpected decrease in perceived risk among some participants highlights a potential disconnect between objective impairment and subjective risk assessment.
• Further research is needed to understand the psychological mechanisms underlying risk perception changes following FSTs and to improve interventions aimed at reducing impaired driving.