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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Betty J. Buchan, PhD, Health Sciences, University of Alaska Anchorage, 3211 Providence Drive, DPL 404, Anchorage, AK 99508, 907-786-6574, Betty.Buchan@uaa.alaska.edu

Objectives: This study characterizes and describes the extent and manner of drug and alcohol impaired drivers in Alaska and the impact on traffic safety. Methods: Drug and alcohol abuse impacts morbidity and mortality in a variety of ways. One of the ways in which it damages the larger society is the impact of use in increasing the number of dead and injured from vehicular crashes caused by or associated with the use of alcohol and illegal drugs while driving. This is a public health problem gaining the rapid attention of law enforcement, safety officials, and emergency medical services in Alaska. Data collected from Alaska State Troopers, the Anchorage Police Department, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from 2000 to 2005 provides an overview of alcohol, marihuana, methamphetamine, and cocaine use in reckless drivers in Alaska and the loss of life caused as a result of drug impaired drivers. Results: From 2000 to 2005, 45% of traffic fatalities in Alaska were speed related and an average of 47% of fatality crashes had alcohol and/or drugs involved. The most common combination is alcohol, marihuana, and methamphetamine. Marihuana is currently decriminalized in Alaska and the effects contribute to lack of public safety on our roads and highways. Conclusions: Alaska now uses the expertise of 19 Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) law enforcement officers to evaluate the impact of driving under the influence alcohol and illicit drug on public safety on our roadways and to assist public health practitioners in identifying effective prevention programs.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Identify the most common drugs involved in driving under the influence of drugs arrests.
• Recognize the impact driving under the influence of alcohol combined with drugs has on motor vehicle crases and fatalities.
• Recognize the impact of drug recognition expert law enforcement officers in identifying drivers who put public safety at risk.

Keywords: Drugs, Alcohol Use

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered