The impact of alcohol ignition interlocks on a group of recidivist drink drivers

Abstract

A randomised trial of court mandated alcohol ignition interlocks is currently being implemented in South-East Queensland. The study aims to determine whether the device in combination with a drink driving rehabilitation program is more effective than the rehabilitation program alone in reducing drink driving recidivism. This paper reports from the user’s perspective on the experience of their undertaking the rehabilitation program and the use of interlocks as a sentencing option. Data was collected through structured interviews with participants on five occasions while they were on the trial. Initial findings regarding the impact of interlocks on convicted offenders’ drinking, driving and drink driving behaviour as well as their motivation and self-efficacy levels to change and/or control their drinking and drink driving will be reported. The reliability of the self-report data will be reviewed in comparison to the downloaded interlock recordings, and the group’s perceptions regarding the purpose and effectiveness of interlocks as a sentencing option are examined. Early results indicate considerable variation in participants’ ability to both modify their behaviour and successfully use the device. A major limitation of the study has been the small number of offenders recruited to the trial through the courts.