The ten year exponential trend for estimated fatalities in alcohol related accidents in UK shows a reduction from 1170 to 510 between 1984 and 1994. Group discussions were held with 293 convicted male offenders; the sample was skewed towards middle aged males and had a high proportion of unemployed. Five clusters were distinguished: persisters, 23% of sample, with previous convictions for drunken driving and other crimes; refuters, 19%, denied drunken driving is wrong, felt chances of being caught were remote and considered they were unaffected by drinking; devastated professionals, 19%, shocked at being treated like criminals, and felt they were capable of driving after drinking; young irresponsible, 17%, carefree and inexperienced, knew driving was impaired but took the risk; one-offs, 7%, occasional drinkers, severely affected and claimed to be reformed. Offenders considered worst consequences of conviction were: 1. greatly increased insurance costs (young irresponsible); 2. inconvenience of not having a car (persisters); 3. loss of job (happened to 15%); loss of mobility (devastated professionals). Many people say they had drunk more than they had intended; this may reflect changes in public attitudes towards drinking and driving. If aim of future countermeasures is to reduce number with high BAC, then greater perceived risk of being breathalysed is more effective.
Abstract