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Differentiating "bad drivers" with and without a DWI
J J Buntain-Ricklefs1, F P Rivara, D M Donovan
1Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98104, USA.
Journal of Studies on Alcohol
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Identifying risk factors beyond traffic violations is key to preventing driving while intoxicated (DWI). This study found that driving behavior, drinking habits, trauma history, and family history significantly increase DWI risk.
Area of Science:
- Traffic safety research
- Alcohol and substance abuse studies
Background:
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI) remains a significant public safety concern.
- Existing knowledge on risk factors for DWI is limited, particularly beyond multiple traffic violations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify risk factors associated with subsequent driving while intoxicated (DWI) violations.
- To pinpoint specific characteristics of high-risk drivers beyond multiple vehicle-related violations.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective cohort study design was employed.
- Data were collected from 253 drivers with multiple vehicle-related violations using a questionnaire.
- The questionnaire assessed driving and personal characteristics.
Main Results:
- Thirty-six variables were identified as significant risk factors for subsequent DWI.
- Risk of subsequent DWI increased 1.8- to 6.3-fold based on these factors.
- Key risk categories included driving behavior, drinking behavior, history of physical trauma, alcohol expectancies, and family history.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that specific driver characteristics can identify individuals at high risk for DWI.
- A targeted screening system could enhance the effectiveness of DWI prevention programs.
- Interventions can be better focused on high-risk populations identified through these factors.