Effect of Low Proscribed Blood Alcohol Levels (BALs) on Traffic Accidents among Newly-Licensed Drivers

Abstract

Three Australian States introduced lower blood alcohol levels (BALs) for first-year drivers than those applicable to other drivers. In Tasmania, a zero BAL significantly reduced casualty accidents for drivers and motorcyclists, in South Australia a 005 per cent BAL significantly reduced male driver and motorcyclist casualty accidents not requiring hospitalization, while in Western Australia a 002 per cent BAL significantly reduced driver and motorcyclist casualty accidents not requiring hospitalization. For a number of methodological reasons the counter-measure should only be regarded as a promising rather than a proven way of reducing alcohol-related accidents among young drivers.