Alternative Transportation Programs: A Countermeasure for Reducing Impaired Driving

Decina, Lawrence E.; Foss, Robert D.; Tucker, Mary Ellen; Goodwin, Arthur; Sohn, Jamie · 2009 · ROSA P / United States. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

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Summary

This report, commissioned by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), addresses the complex problem of alcohol-impaired driving by evaluating alternative transportation (AT) programs as a viable countermeasure. With alcohol-impaired driving accounting for 32% of motor vehicle fatalities in the United States, the study aims to provide guidance to states and local communities on developing, refining, or expanding AT services. The research posits that while enforcement and education are critical, providing accessible, convenient, and free transportation options can significantly reduce the likelihood of individuals driving after drinking. The report synthesizes existing literature and program data to identify characteristics that maximize ridership and effectiveness, such as availability, ease of integration into social activities, and direct home delivery. The methodology involved a comprehensive literature search and review of existing AT programs across the United States. The authors categorized programs by transportation mode, including personal vehicles, limousines, buses, taxis, trolleys, tow trucks, and scooters, as well as specific college-based initiatives like fixed-route shuttles and point-to-point services. The report details the operational structures of various programs, noting differences in funding (non-profit vs. for-profit), service areas, and hours of operation. Specific case studies, such as the Designated Drivers Association in San Diego, SafeRide America in Atlanta, and campus programs at the University of North Carolina and Midwestern University, were analyzed to assess user demographics, service volume, and operational logistics. The review also examined experimental design methodologies for evaluating program effectiveness. Key findings indicate that the most effective AT programs are those that are continually available, free to users, and convenient, minimizing practical barriers to use. Programs that transport drinkers directly to their homes and handle vehicle retrieval (such as tow-and-ride or designated driver services) show the greatest potential for reducing crashes. The report highlights that successful programs often integrate into the social context of drinking, such as through partnerships with bars, restaurants, and law enforcement. For instance, the Sober Cab program in Minnesota involves bartenders calling cabs for intoxicated patrons, while college programs often use student ID verification to provide free rides. Data from evaluated programs, such as the Designated Drivers Association, showed high usage rates among young adults, with many users reporting they would have driven themselves if the service were unavailable. However, the report notes that few programs have undergone rigorous scientific evaluation for crash reduction, with most assessments focusing on public awareness, acceptance, and self-reported behavior. The significance of this report lies in its provision of a framework for communities to implement effective AT programs as part of a multi-faceted approach to impaired driving. It concludes that AT programs must be extensively integrated into community strategies and offer broad coverage of time, geography, and individuals to achieve maximum benefit. By identifying best practices—such as ensuring free service, easy access, and seamless integration with drinking venues—the report offers actionable insights for policymakers and program developers. It underscores that while AT programs have existed for decades, their potential is maximized when they remove logistical hurdles for intoxicated individuals, thereby serving as a critical component in the broader effort to reduce alcohol-related traffic fatalities and injuries.

Key finding

The most effective alternative transportation programs are those that are continually available, free to users, and convenient, taking riders directly to their homes to minimize practical barriers.

Methodology

review

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• dui enforcement

Information type

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• Applied Guidance: countermeasure evaluation