Working with the benefit of hindsight: a perspective on alcohol interlocks
Keywords: Enforcement & Penalties
ARSRPE
Submission Date: 2003
Abstract
Alcohol ignition interlocks hold much promise as a strategy to reduce drink driving recidivism. However, there are a number of issues that need to be considered if their effectiveness is to be maximized. In order to optimize outcomes, interlock programs need to be well integrated and coordinated with other drink driving countermeasures. The collective measures need to provide significant incentives for eligible offenders to participate as well as powerful disincentives to unlawful driving.
This paper outlines some of the issues currently being considered by a specialist working group to combat drink driving in Western Australia, particularly those related to alcohol interlocks. It explores the complexities associated with designing an integrated program that aims to reduce the harm associated with drink driving through the use of legal sanctions, remedial interventions and supporting legislation, and wherever possible to keep offenders operating within a system of legal control.