NCJ Number
81496
Journal
Journal of Legal Studies Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1982) Pages: 93-116
Date Published
1982
Length
24 pages
Annotation
Using economietric analyses, findings are challenged from the Lawrence Ross study (1975) that characterized as myth the deterrence effectiveness of Swedish and Norwegian laws aimed at drunken driving.
Abstract
Econometric models are used, with both time-series and cross-section data, to distinguish among the effects of alcohol consumption, traffic load and density, road quality, vehicle mix, and law enforcement activity in the determination of accidents on public roads. Norway and Sweden stand out in their far-lower-than-average per capita alcohol consumption and motoring accidents. They also have among the most restrictive practices in alcohol sales and the most punitive and rigorously enforced laws regarding driving while intoxicated (DWI). The alternative scenarios presented with the analytical model help to explain apparent conflicts among researchers who have attempted to demonstrate empirically whether Scandinavian law enforcement deters DWI accidents. Econometric analysis helps to sort out the interrelationships that jointly generate the apparently conflicting evidence. Solid support is provided for control theories and, hence, deterrence, once the simultaneity of relationships is specified. While it still may be true that Scandinavians respond more conscientiously to the law than citizens of other countries, and while it must be true that they are willing to tolerate stricter penalties and higher levels of enforcement, the evidence is that compliance with the law is strongly reinforced by law enforcement activity and sanctions. Empirical results are tabulated, and estimates for Sweden and Norway are appended. (Author summary modified)