Abstract
This paper examines gender differences in the relationship between two measures of depression at the time of an alcohol-related road accident and drinking behaviour at the time of the accident and 1 month later. Experience of depression symptoms during the 12 months before and after the accident are also traced. Preliminary results indicate a greater incidence of depression among men involved in accidents although they are less likely than women to experience depression in the general population. The authors suggest that there is a complex relationship between high risk behaviour, drinking and driving as a way of dealing with depression which requires further investigation.