This paper reports a Canadian study, aiming to compare the characteristics of two high-risk groups, drinking and non-drinking drivers involved in crashes. The study's sample was drawn from motor vehicle crash (MVC) drivers, aged at least 18, and judged fit to participate, who were admitted to a specific accident unit between 1 August 1986 and 31 August 1989. Blood tests were made, police MVC reports were collected, and the drivers were interviewed and given a questionnaire. The two groups were compared statistically, using a chi-square analysis and Student's t test. Of the 506 drivers admitted during the testing period, 306 were competent to participate, but only 106 interviews were completed, because 102 refused consent and 98 were discharged first. The sample results must therefore be viewed with caution. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) data were available for 96 of those interviewed. The BAC positive and negative groups did not have significantly different age, sex, marital status, education, occupation or employment status. However, significantly higher BAC + proportions were found among the unemployed or seasonally employed, those with lower incomes, those in debt, and those with previous licence suspensions. Significantly lower proportions were found among social introverts.
Abstract