This paper discusses three types of rehabilitation programmes for drunk drivers in the Federal Republic of Germany, and indicates the results of some evaluation studies. The programme for novice drivers is implemented as part of the provisions for the probationary licencing of novice drivers, under a new law introduced on 1 November 1986. A special alcohol safety programme has been designed for novice drivers committing drinking and driving offences during their two-year probation period. It has had quite promising results so far. The programmes for first-time drinking and driving offenders were introduced in 1978, and aim to supplement the general preventive effect of fines and licence revocation, and to change drinking and driving habits. Although attended by only a small minority of first-time offenders, their extent is steadily increasing, and they significantly reduce the frequency of relapses. There is also a special programme for drivers with several drinking and driving convictions, admission to which is subject to federally specified assignment criteria. Due to intensive teamwork in small groups, all three programme models for drivers with previous drinking and driving offences (individual approach, behaviouristic approach, LEER model) have been successful.
Abstract