A summary of the international literature reveals the existence of contrasting assumptions, with scientific evidence clearly demonstrating altered psychomotor functions; the need to adopt sufficiently complex psychometric tests to reveal the effects of low BACs; the need to improve standardization of experimental studies in man-machine interaction; the need to investigate the following areas; tolerance to alcohol; low BACs with inexpected infrequent drinkers and chronic, heavy drinkers; hangover effects; alcohol-gender-age interactions; and specific effects on young drivers; alcohol-drug combinations. The analysis of legislation and enforcement policies also shows the need for re-evaluation of the international legal BAC threshold and standardization of procedures for ascertaining the degree of driving disability; further scientific research to compare and evaluate selected legislative initiatives currently in place in most states; to identify the best strategies and procedures to detect and arrest impaired drivers; to determine the optimim random testing rate to maximize deterrent effects in the workplace at minimal cost; to design innovative and comprehensive approaches to rehabilitation programs needed for subgroups of offenders and of workers; to study the effectiveness of new legislation and policies.
Abstract