Alcohol Countermeasures

Abstract

This paper discusses the variety of mechanisms and methods that have been used for the purpose of either preventing or at least lessening the seriousness of automobile accidents due to DWI (driving while intoxicated). Examination is made of the unique contribution to this problem by the young driver and the lowering of the drinking age to 18. General descriptive statements about the DWI driver including probable times of arrest and socioeconomic background are made. An examination of possible countermeasures considers legislative, legal, and interpersonal methods. The authors conclude that an agreed upon measure of effectiveness is necessary to evaluate countermeasures and that the public needs to be convinced of the possibility of their drinking contributing to an accident.