Citation

Metter D. Blutalkohol 1976; 13(4): 241-249.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1976, International Committee on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety and Bund gegen Alkohol und Drogen im Straßenverkehr, Publisher Steintor Verlag)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Under the term 'relative driving incapacity', one understands a failure of the motorist which is generally caused by the influence of alcohol in the blood with values of less than 0.013%. Indications of relative driving incapacity can be drawn from the motorist's personality traits, his personal conduct, his driving behavior and external conditions. Personality traits of special significance are alcohol usage, driving practices and any eventual sicknesses. The examination of conduct before the offence should concern itself with the original vegetative conditions, drinking habits and the possible influence of medicine. While driving, the motorist can become conspicuous through improper handling of his vehicle and by driving in a manner inconsistent with traffic regulations. The influence of alcohol can be suspected in accidents which are the result of swerving off the road or rear-end collisions. When evaluating the conduct after the incident, the physical condition as well as the remarks and behavior of the accused should be taken into consideration. Symptoms of physical deficiency are particularly convincing. The indications of driving incapacity must be judged collectively. At the same time, the medical expert has the task of explaining, but not of assessing, the value of the evidence.