In many instances, the concept of a designated
driver just doesn't work, says a Canadian study that challenges
the usefulness of this method of preventing impaired driving.
The University of Alberta survey of about 1,000 people
found that the idea of a designated driver is meaningless
for many young adults. Instead of opting for a sober driver,
they pick the person who is least drunk to be their designated
driver, the survey showed.
The study found that the majority of 18- to 29-year-olds
have used a designated driver, but many of the survey
respondents noted that designated drivers often drink
when they're "on duty." And nearly 18 percent of the respondents
from rural areas said they choose a designated driver
during or after they'd been drinking.
"The idea of having a designated driver is a great one,
but it's problematic for many people. The concept and
practice of using designated drivers should be re-thought
to make it more effective," study lead investigator Dr.
Peter Rothe, of the university's Alberta Center for Injury
Control and Research, said in a prepared statement.
He and his colleagues also heard that people who try
to stop others from drinking and driving are often subjected
to abuse.
"One of the biggest surprises to me was how often designated
drivers faced verbal and physical abuse from their friends
and passengers," Rothe said. "When a friend tries to stop
someone from driving drunk, there is often a threat of
a fight. We heard from many people who said more often
than not, they will back down and allow someone who has
been drinking to get behind the wheel rather than risk
a fight."
