This paper describes a NHTSA sponsored research study to develop and test a set of countermeasures intended to reduce alcohol-related crashes among adult pedestrians. A test city (Baltimore, MD) was chosen, and to provide insights into the crash victim's activities, in-depth discussions were held with pedestrians who had been in alcohol-related crashes. A large set of countermeasures was compiled and submitted to city representatives for consideration, and the Department of Public Works agreed to become the lead organisation in implementing their "Walk Smart Baltimore" program. Countermeasures used as part of the program included a press kit, a video for police, television and radio public service announcements, as well as engineering modifications. Reductions were reported in total crashes, crashes on roads on which special signs were erected, serious injury crashes, and crashes in targeted zones. Overall, the findings suggest the program made some positive inroads into reducing the pedestrian alcohol problem in Baltimore. Additional research is needed to determine whether a more intensive or longer duration campaign would be associated with more substantial crash reductions.
Abstract