Which young people accept a lift from a drunk or drugged driver?

Calafat A, Adrover-Roig D, Blay N, Juan M, Bellis M, Hughes K, Mendes F, Kokkevi A.
(2009) Accd Anal Prev. 41 (4), 703-709.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Riding with a drunk and/or a drugged driver (RDD) is a risk behaviour that has received very little attention in spite of its potential dangers. Young people involved in the recreational nightlife context are especially at risk.

METHOD: 1363 regular users of recreational nightlife from nine European countries (mean age: 21.75; 51.5% women) filled out a self-administered and anonymous questionnaire (in 2006).

RESULTS: 37.2% had practised RDD during the previous month. RDD is related to drunkenness and use of drugs, personality factors such as impulsivity, preferring to use a private car to get to nightlife venues, living in a southern European country and being unemployed. No significant influence was found for age, gender, educational level or socioeconomic status.

DISCUSSION: It is important to raise awareness about the high prevalence of RDD. This lack of awareness can be related to its social acceptance among young people. The use of private cars for going to nightlife venues should be discouraged.