Citation

Stoduto G, Mann RE, Smart RG, Adlaf EM, Vingilis ER, Beirness DJ, Lamble R. Proc. Int. Counc. Alcohol Drugs Traffic Safety Conf. 2000; 2000: -p..

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, The author(s) and the Council, Publisher International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Ontario introduced an Administrative Driver's Licence Suspension Law (ADLS) on November 29, 1996. This study aimed to evaluate public awareness of the law, it's effects on drinking-driving behaviour, and it's impact on alcohol-related fatal collisions. Knowledge and behaviour data were obtained from the Ontario Drug Monitor, a monthly cross-sectional general population survey of Ontario adults, collected during 1996 and 1997. Logistic regression analyses were conducted on the impact of the ADLS intervention on self-reported drinking-driving and knowledge of the ADLS. After introduction of the ADLS, knowledge of the sanction increased significantly and self-reported driving after drinking decreased significantly. Time series analyses of fatally injured drivers with a positive blood alcohol level demonstrated a significant intervention effect of the new law. These data suggest that there was widespread public awareness of the new law, a corresponding drop in drinking-driving behaviour, and a resultant decline in alcohol-related collisions. Preliminary analyses also indicate that the deterrent impact of the law was greatest among lighter or more moderate drinkers.