Citation

Thomas JO, Trinca GW. Proc. Int. Counc. Alcohol Drugs Traffic Safety Conf. 1981; 1981: 137-143.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1981, The author(s) and the Council, Publisher International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In the state of Victoria in November, 1974, it became compulsory for blood alcohol samples to be taken from all persons 15 years of age and over who were involved in a motor vehicle accident and entered hospital for treatment or examination. This new legislation allowed for all drivers who had a blood alcohol concentration in excess of the legal limit (.05%) to be prosecuted. Initially, the law fell into disrepute because of poor documentation, logistic problems, resistance by doctors and police and a number of government departments being responsible for the law's implementation. By late 1976, it was found that very few drivers were being prosecuted and in February, 1977 a modified system was introduced. This resulted in an improvement in the collection, analysis and distribution of results. Assessment and further treatment in hospitals was facilitated, and there was a marked increase in the number of positive drivers successfully prosecuted. However, comprehensive programmes for the rehabilitation of drivers with alcohol problems remains limited. The present system can be further improved to make more effective this legislation which can significantly contribute to the control of the drinking driver and associated alcohol problems. (TRRL)