Who is the Hardcore Drunk Driver?
In this section:
The “hardcore drunk driver”. An image that likely comes to mind is someone with multiple DUI arrests, yet continues to drink and drive even after their license has been revoked.
In part, this description is accurate. But an individual’s driving record by itself does not paint the full picture. Other contributing factors are:
Arrest and Sentencing Record
- Has multiple DUI arrests and convictions
- 1/3 of all drivers arrested, convicted, or adjudicated for DUI are repeat offenders
- Is more likely to have an excessively high BAC (0.25 or above) at the time of arrest
- Has, on average, over 7 DUI convictions
Resistant Behavior
- Drives frequently (at least once a month) with a 0.15 BAC or above
- Is highly resistant to behavioral change despite previous sanctions, treatment, or education
- Has a high recidivism rate
- Has a personal history of alcohol abuse and dependence
- Is more likely to have family members who drive drunk and models that behavior
- Believes he or she can drive safely after consuming large quantities of alcohol
Societal Impact
- Reports drinking and driving a “few times” per month
- Some drive drunk every day
- Are responsible for 2 out of 3 alcohol-related traffic fatalities
- Drives drunk almost 90 times before their first DUI arrest
Sources:
- The Century Council – National Hardcore Drunk Driver Project
- National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA)
- Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD)
- Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF)
