This report summarizes the results of three field tests of the concept of combining enforcement with public information and education (PI&E) activities to achieve general deterrence of driving while intoxicated (DWI). Test communities were Clearwater/Largo, Florida, Indianapolis, Indiana and Boise, Idaho. Each community identified several specific DWI enforcement techniques to implement and PI&E materials were developed that highlighted those specific enforcement techniques. The programs were implemented in each community for approximately a one year period and measures of public awareness, reported drinking driving behaviour and crash experience were examined in the test communities and comparison communities. The test programs represented a variety of enforcement and PI&E approaches as dictated by local conditions. Similarly there were varying effects of the programs. The salient enforcement technique associated with program effectiveness was the use of checkpoints. Overall command emphasis was also found to be important. A comprehensive PI&E program using public service ads, hard news coverage and community appearances was also associated with program success while reliance on a single PI&E approach was less likely to achieve desired results. Methodological issues in implementing and evaluating such interventions are also discussed. (A)
Abstract