Steering Clear of Drunk Driving

Background/Purpose

In the US in 2011, 9,878 people died in motor vehicle crashes involving a driver impaired by alcohol, representing nearly one-third of all highway fatalities. Drunk driving costs were estimated to be $130 billion in 2006. Passive alcohol sensing technologies that would prevent drivers under the influence of alcohol from operating a car are being developed through a public-private partnership, and hold promise for preventing deaths and injuries. However, the partnership is taking a voluntary, market-based approach to the implementation of their technology, whereas other countries have proven that a mandatory approach is more effective in gaining necessary consumer buy-in. This paper finds that a regulatory approach to mandating updated drunk driving technology is necessary to save lives and money.

Methods

We reviewed literature about alcohol sensing technologies and policies to promote their development and implementation. Additionally, we interviewed a select number of US experts.

Results/outcomes

Ignition interlocks are the main form of alcohol sensing technology, but the most promising alcohol technology development is passive sensing technology. Lessons from other countries prove that a regulatory, not market-based approach should be used to maximize the potential benefits of this alcohol sensing technology.  If implemented on a large scale, the technology could save nearly 7,000 lives per year.

Conclusion

Through a market-based approach, the partnership should accomplish one step in the regulatory process – consumer acceptance. However, this will not suffice to eventually reach regulation, which should be the end goal. Technological affordability and a political strategy are also necessary.