Behavior and Driving Safety Study (BADS)

Sacramento Police Department, California Office of Traffic Safety, University of Michigan, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Teachable Moment Foundation

The purpose of this study is to determine whether brief motivational interviews reduce the likelihood of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI).

Despite extensive legislative, law enforcement, and public awareness efforts, driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) remains a major cause of mortality and loss of years of productive life. A brief motivational interview (BI) is a non-confrontational, patient-centered discussion during which the individual's motivation and confidence to change health-related behaviors are explored. Previous studies of BIs in health care settings suggest that BIs administered after hospitalization for alcohol-related injury reduce the likelihood of repeat injury hospitalization and arrest for DUI.

Automobile driving, Driving under the influence, Interview, psychological, Brief intervention, Brief motivational interview

The brief motivational interview is a non-confrontational, patient-centered discussion between a counselor (e.g., social worker, nurse, physician, or psychologist) and an at-risk individual during which the individual's motivation and confidence to change health-related behaviors are explored.

Inclusion Criteria: Second or greater arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol Arrest involved operation of a motor vehicle At least 18 years of age English-speaking Exclusion Criteria: Arrest involved injury to another person Previous participation in this study