NCJ Number
108123
Journal
Criminal Justice Policy Review Volume: 1 Issue: 3 Dated: (October 1986) Pages: 286-304
Date Published
1986
Length
19 pages
Annotation
After reviewing studies of the effectiveness of various types of legislative action against drunk driving, this article reports on a survey of a random sample of Texas residents to determine their views and experience on drunk driving issues, particularly the 'open container' issue.
Abstract
The application of deterrence through more severe penalties for drunk driving has been tried in many States with little success. States have raised the legal minimum age limit for drinking to decrease alcohol-related traffic accidents and fatalities. Research on this approach is also equivocal. Many States have also passed 'open-container' laws that prohibit driving with unsealed containers of alcoholic beverages in the passenger compartments of vehicles. There is no research to substantiate the effectiveness of this strategy. The Texas survey on drunk driving and open-container issues yielded responses which indicate that an unsealed alcoholic beverage container in a vehicle has been associated with both the experiences of being with drunken drivers and of driving while drunk. Previous research shows that continued drinking during driving escalates motor impairment, thus increasing the possibility of drunken driving. Open-container laws may have as much promise as harsher sanctions and a higher minimum drinking age. 7 tables and 47-item bibliography. (Author abstract modified)