Drink driving during the COVID-19 pandemic

Area of Science:

• Road safety research
• Behavioural science
• Epidemiology

Background:

• COVID-19 pandemic led to temporary suspension of static roadside random breath testing (RBT) in Queensland, Australia.
• This provided a unique natural experiment to study drink-driving behavior changes.
• Social and travel restrictions were also in place during this period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine changes in drink-driving behavior during and after a reduction in RBT operations.
• To identify predictors of drink-driving intention and engagement.
• To assess the continued impact of RBT as a general deterrent.

Main Methods:

• Three cross-sectional surveys were conducted with 1193 Queensland licensed drivers (aged 18+).
• Data collected on drink-driving behavior, intentions, and demographics.
• Statistical analysis identified predictors of drink-driving.

Main Results:

• Overall drink driving decreased across the survey periods.
• However, specific groups, notably young males (18-24 years) with restricted licenses, showed increased drink driving or intention to drink drive.
• Prior engagement in drink driving was the strongest predictor of future engagement.
• A small number of new drink drivers emerged, potentially linked to perceived punishment avoidance.

Conclusions:

• Despite reduced RBT visibility and social opportunities, drink driving persisted.
• Random breath testing remains a critical general deterrent for drink driving.
• Targeted interventions may be needed for high-risk groups, such as young male drivers.