Special accident investigation studies:​ the role of alcohol/drug involvement

Sterling-Smith, Robert; Fell, James C.

Affiliations

²National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Abstract

The NHTSA is sponsoring special accident investigation studies on the alcohol/drug involvement problem in the cities of Albuquerque, Baltimore, and Boston. These studies are in coordination with ongoing ASAP projects in each of the three cities. The first year's effort at Boston is described. A total of 50 accidents involving a fatality during an 8 month period in the Boston ASAP area were investigated. A Human Factors Index (HFI) was determined via interviews, records, and questionnaires on each driver designated to be "at-fault" in the accident. A hypothetical "modal" operator is described based upon the entire sample. Results discussed include: 42% of the focal operators were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash; 60% of the focal operators indicated chronic risk taking behaviors; 62% of the alcohol involved operators were considered to be "problem drinkers." Implications pointed to new areas of possible identification criteria for the Boston ASAP. A proposed two-year continuation of the study is described.

Cited Works (1)

Year	Entry
1971	States JD, Fenner HA, Flamboe EE, Nelson WD, Hames LN. Field application and research development of the abbreviated injury scale. In: Proceedings of the 15th Stapp Car Crash Conference. November 17-19, 1971; Coronado, CA. Warrendale, PA: Society of Automotive Engineers:710-738. SAE 710873.

Cited By (1)

Year	Entry
1973	Sterling-Smith RS, Fell JC. A human factors analysis of most responsible drivers in fatal accidents. In: 17th Annual Proceedings, Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine (AAAM). November 14-17, 1973; Oklahoma City, OK.470-490.