Citation

Nichols J, Chaudhary N, Tison J. Transp. Res. Circular 2009; (E-C132): 187-203.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, U.S. National Academy of Sciences Transportation Research Board)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In spite of reductions in alcohol-related deaths among young vehicle occupants from 1982 through the mid-1990s, little progress has been made since that time. Laws, enforcement, and sanctions were key factors associated with early declines and such efforts likely provide the foundation for further progress. However, another aspect of alcohol-related fatalities affects all age groups and that is low seat belt use. Most persons who die in alcohol-related crashes are not buckled up and this is particularly the case late at night, when younger drivers and their passengers are more prevalent on the roadway. This paper suggests that there is considerable overlap between occupants (of all ages) who are killed in alcohol-related crashes and those victims who are unbuckled. It suggests that, along with efforts to deter impaired drivers, more emphasis should be placed on increasing seat belt usage among potential alcohol-related crash victims. At least a portion of such emphasis should be shifted to nighttime hours when impaired driving and seat belt non-use are at their highest levels and when the majority of unbuckled, alcohol-related fatal crashes occur. In the 24 states with secondary seat belt laws, upgrades that allow for primary enforcement, combined with intensified and high visibility enforcement efforts, provide the greatest potential for reducing alcohol-related deaths. Combined nighttime enforcement programs and primary law upgrades have considerable potential to further reduce alcohol-related deaths among all age groups.