Blood-levels of alcohol were determined among 150 drivers aged over 16, who were injured in traffic accidents whilst driving on the roads in the Tudela area (Navarre, Spain), during the period of a year (May 1, 1990 until April 30, 1991), and receiving attention in the Casualty Unit of Tudela Hospital within four hours of the accident occurring. The ADX technique was used to assess blood levels of alcohol. The injured drivers were stratified in two groups depending on the levels of alcohol they had in their blood: less, equal or more than 80 mg/dl (the maximum level permitted by present Spanish legislation). 30.6% of those involved in an accident had blood levels of alcohol > 80 mg/dl. High alcohol blood levels (> 80 mg/dl) were more frequent in young single men. Accidents, producing more serious injuries, occur more frequently on local and regional roads, at night, and during the weekends and holiday periods. (A)
Abstract