Determine Reasons for Repeat Drinking and Driving [NHTSA]

Wiliszowski, Connie H.; Murphy, P.; Jones, R. K. (Ralph K.); Lacey, John H. · 1996 · ROSA P / United States. Department of Transportation. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

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Summary

This 1996 study, conducted by the Mid-America Research Institute for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), investigates the underlying reasons for repeat driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses. The research was motivated by the high rate of recidivism among DWI offenders, approximately 30% of whom have prior convictions, and their disproportionate involvement in fatal crashes. The primary objective was to determine why individuals continue to drink and drive despite previous legal sanctions, evaluate the effectiveness of existing countermeasures, and identify promising strategies to reduce recidivism. The study employed a qualitative methodology involving 182 one-on-one, audio-taped interviews with convicted DWI offenders. Data collection occurred between February and October 1995 across three geographically diverse sites: Phoenix, Arizona; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and the 18th Judicial District in Colorado. Interviews were conducted by trained substance abuse counselors and probation officers using a structured discussion guide. Participants were recruited through court records and newspaper advertisements, though the study faced significant challenges with high refusal and "no-show" rates. The data relied entirely on self-reported information, with anonymity guaranteed to encourage candid responses regarding personal backgrounds, drinking patterns, and perceptions of the legal system. Key findings indicate that repeat offenders often view their behavior as a manifestation of broader alcohol abuse or addiction rather than an isolated driving issue. While fear of arrest and jail serves as a deterrent, its effect is often temporary; many offenders resumed DWI behavior after sanctions concluded. A majority of participants believed they could drive safely while intoxicated and did not perceive themselves as endangering others. Furthermore, many offenders drove despite license suspensions, believing they could avoid detection. The study found that jail time alone failed to alter long-term behavior. Conversely, positive behavioral changes were associated with contact from caring individuals, such as judges or counselors, and the presence of a personal support structure. Offenders also noted that standardized assessments were easily manipulated to avoid stricter sanctions, suggesting a need for more thorough, individualized evaluations. The authors conclude that no single countermeasure can deter all repeat offenders due to unique individual circumstances and personality traits. They recommend a multi-faceted approach including personalized assessments, individualized treatment plans, intensive supervision probation, and confinement combined with treatment. The study emphasizes that while enforcement remains necessary, long-term recidivism reduction requires interrupting destructive patterns through ongoing monitoring, reassessment, and therapeutic intervention that addresses underlying lifestyle and addiction issues.

Key finding

Repeat DWI offenders often perceive their drinking as the primary problem rather than their driving, and while fear of jail deters some, many continue to drive with suspended licenses believing they can avoid detection and drive safely.

Methodology

mixed_methods

Sample size: 182

Provenance

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Summary generated by qwen3.6-27b-prismaquant on 2026-06-10; verification: verified.

Topics

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• dui enforcement