The primary purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of drug-impaired drivers involved in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) resulting in fatalities or injuries serious enough to require admission to a major metropolitan level-1 trauma center. Data were collected from records available on all such deaths or patients during a three month period, December 16, 1995-March 17, 1996. In addition to drivers, testing included all passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. The total sample was 246 persons killed or injured. Among drivers tested (n=106), 28% tested positive for drug use while 40% exceeded the legal limit for alcohol. Passengers tested (n=33) were found to be positive for drug use about as often as alcohol (32% vs 34%). Although based on a small number (n=18), pedestrians tested revealed a high prevalence for both drug use (56%) and alcohol use (53%). This study documents the substantial use of drugs (as well as alcohol at unacceptable levels) among persons suffering death or disability resulting from motor vehicle accidents in a defined metropolitan area in a specific three month time window. Drug and alcohol use comparisons are also made with drivers arrested for DUI during the same time period in the same community. (A)
Abstract