This report describes the use of alcohol and medication reported by weekend, night-time drivers surveyed at random by Police in Victoria, Australia and Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. In Melbourne 5.3% of these drivers had used alcohol, 8.4% had used medication and 18.7% had used alcohol and medication or both. These figures were 2 .1 %, 2.6% and 3.7% respectively for drivers in rural Victoria. In Belfast, they were l.5%, 5.5% and 6.6% respectively. Differences between Melbourne and Belfast in the frequency of alcohol and medication use by drivers were generally consistent with differences in published data relating to use of alcohol and medication in the two communities. Prescription drug use was reported up to six times more frequently than use of over-the-counter preparations.
Type: Research and Analysis Report
Sub Type: Consultant Report
Author(s): J Hendtlass
Topics: Drugs
Publication Date: 01/07/83