Perceptions and Experiences of Random Breath Testing in Queensland and the Self-Reported Deterrent Impact on Drunk Driving

Abstract

Objective. The present study explored the impact of random breath testing (RBT) on the attitudes, perceptions, and self-reported behavior of motorists in the Australian state of Queensland. Particular attention was given to how exposure to RBT impacted motorists' perceived risk of apprehension and self-reported behavior, relative to other variables of interest such as alcohol consumption.

Methods. The study involved a telephone survey of 780 motorists drawn from throughout the state of Queensland. Participants were volunteers recruited from a random sample of all listed telephone numbers in the state, adjusted according to district population figures. The survey questionnaire collected information relating to the participants' socio-demographic characteristics, drinking and drunk driving behaviors, attitudes toward drunk driving and RBT, and experiences and perceptions of RBT.

Results. The analysis indicated that a large proportion of the sample had both observed RBT and been breath tested within the last six months and believed the practice served an important role in improving road safety. However, a considerable percentage also reported drunk driving at least once in the last six months without being detected, with further analysis indicating that the threat of apprehension associated with RBT did not appear to greatly influence their offending behavior. Rather, a higher frequency of alcohol consumption, combined with more favorable attitudes to drunk driving and lower levels of support for RBT, appeared to be associated with offending behavior.

Conclusions. While the results confirm the high levels of exposure to RBT achieved in Queensland, the direct impact of recent exposure on drunk driving behavior appears less important than other factors such as alcohol consumption and attitudes to drunk driving and RBT. Further research is required to better understand how recent and lifetime exposure to RBT impacts on motorists' perceived risk of apprehension and subsequent drunk driving behavior.

Keywords:

• Impaired Driving
• Random Breath Testing (RBT)
• Law Enforcement
• Deterrence
• Alcohol Use
• Traffic Safety

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to acknowledge the assistance of those involved in the development and administration of the study questionnaire including: Richard Tay, Jenny Madden, Amanda Gough, and Susan Hart. The financial support of the Australian National Drug Law Enforcement Fund and the Queensland Motor Accident Insurance Commission is also acknowledged, as well as the support of the Queensland Police Service.

The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Queensland Police Service. Any errors of omission or commission are the responsibility of the authors.

Notes

¹ A considerable proportion did not provide a reason for their most recent drunk driving behavior.