Abstract
The legal framework regarding drunken driving has changed during the years 1983 to 1991. This paper addresses in its first part these changes together with the changes in accident rates, level of blood alcohol among drivers - especially young drivers - and related issues. In the second part of the paper the focus is on the complex set of competitive socio-economic and political stakes in a wine producing country like France. The evolution of regulations and enforcement regarding drunken driving over the three decades (1960 to 1990) is seen in the light of different socio-economic variables. It is argued that these factors must be considered when the efficiency of the legislation and enforcement is evaluated.