Citation

Foregger E. Blutalkohol 1980; 17(3): 189-198.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1980, International Committee on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety and Bund gegen Alkohol und Drogen im Straßenverkehr, Publisher Steintor Verlag)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Irrespective of certain differences in the legislation of Western Germany and Austria regarding the approach towards the treatment of alcoholised traffic offenders, sentenced offenders will almost exclusively be found in both countries who were responsible for serious consequences and in whom the personality was apparently affected (eg. alcohol abuse). In 1978, 740 persons were jailed due to a traffic offence. Approximately 60% were found to have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the offence. The majority of sentenced offenders are detained in the Wien-Simmering Institution. The obligatory sentence includes a 'psychological treatment model for conspicuous drivers - Driver improvement'. This consists of a six week course to change the attitude of the driver and consists of written and group studies. The course conclues with 'My personal change programme' and 'Contract with myself'. A computerised teaching programme is being developed. In the generally convicted alcoholic, traffic offences were not the main offence. In these cases medical treatment, occupational and group therapy receive priority. Alcoholics Anonymous also play a beneficial role. No final conclusion can as yet be drawn from the new approach. It appears, however, to have promising results and will be continued.

DWI