Drunk Driving Reform in New York State 1980-1984 - Strategy, Results, and Recommendations

• NCJ Number: 96572
• Author(s): V J Graber; E A Connelly
• Date Published: 1984
• Length: 83 pages
• Corporate Author: New York State Assembly
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Report submitted to Stanley Fink, Speaker of the New York State Assembly.

Annotation

The evolution of legislative initiatives enacted in New York The evolution of legislative initiatives enacted in New York State in 1980 aimed at deterring drunk driving is traced, and the impact of these reforms is measured by comparing traffic fatality data from 1979-80 and 1981-83.

Abstract

New York's initial efforts toward reducing the number of alcohol-related accidents focused on establishing a deterrent model. Mostly in place by 1981, it put restrictions on plea bargaining for driving while under the influence (DWI); included reforms aimed at encouraging voluntary submission to breathalyzer tests; provided a mandatory minimum fine schedule; and included development of county-based, violator-funded drunk driving programs. Initiatives introduced in 1984 added a series of laws to deal with repeat and aggravated (charged with homicide or assault arising from drunk driving) offenders. These laws included, among other things, provisions for mandatory prison terms for repeat offenders, mandatory suspension of drivers' license while awaiting arraignment, and exemption of repeat offenders' right to have fingerprint records sealed. Aggravated offenders can now be have fingerprint records sealed. Aggravated offenders can now be charged with a class D felony carrying a 3- to 7-year sentence and can be given court-required chemical tests. Additional provisions affected the licensing requirements and information-dissemination requirements for insurance companies and liquor stores. The impact, according to official data, was positive. The figures indicate a significant reduction in accidents and fatalities, despite an increase in vehicle miles traveled by New Yorkers. Alcohol involved fatal accidents decreased 20 percent from l98l to l983, and accidents during bar hours (l0 p.m. to 5 a.m.) decreased 20.9 percent since l980, despite a 6.l percent increase in non-bar accidents. Even though all accidents have increased by .1 percent since 1980, reported alcohol-involved accidents have accidents have decreased dramatically by 14.5 percent. Suggestions are included for additional legislation to further deter drunk driving. Study data are provided.