Patterns of substance use among non-offender drivers: Associations with demographics, aberrant driving behaviors, and near-collisions.

OBJECTIVES: A substantial body of literature documents the association between alcohol and drug use with impaired driving, increased risky driving behavior, and traffic crashes. However, most research has focused on offender drivers, with limited attention given to non-offenders. Thus, the applicability of these findings to non-offender drivers remains unclear. This study aimed to: (a) examine alcohol consumption patterns, drug problems, and non-prescription medication use among non-offender drivers; (b) investigate the relationship between driver characteristics (age, sex, education, and driving experience) and substance use; and (c) explore the associations between substance use, near-collisions, and aberrant driving behaviors.

METHODS: A total of 360 non-offender drivers (52.5% male) aged 18-75 years (M = 33.52) from Spain participated in the study. Participants provided data on their sociodemographic characteristics, substance use (alcohol, drugs, and non-prescription medications), and self-reported driving behavior, including near-collisions and aberrant behaviors, as measured by the Driver Behavior Questionnaire (DBQ).

RESULTS: Over 85% of participants reported consuming alcohol, with approximately 60% drinking regularly or occasionally (2-4 times a month). The majority (80.1%) had low-risk alcohol consumption as indicated by AUDIT scores. A small proportion (5%) reported drug problems, and most participants (84.4%) did not use non-prescription medications. Alcohol consumption patterns varied significantly by sex, age, and driving experience. Men, younger drivers, and less experienced drivers were more likely to engage in high-risk alcohol consumption. Notably, a high proportion of women reported moderate risk levels of alcohol consumption. No significant differences were found in drugs or non-prescription medication use. Multiple regression analysis revealed that alcohol use, but not drug or non-prescription medication use, predicted violations, aggressive violations, errors, and lapses.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate a high prevalence of alcohol consumption among non-offender drivers and a significant association between alcohol use and aberrant driving behaviors, confirming alcohol as a significant risk factor among non-offenders. While young and male drivers represent the primary risk group, attention should also be given to non-offender women due to their increased alcohol consumption and the associated risks for road safety. Gender-specific research and targeted strategies to reduce alcohol consumption and drink driving among women are discussed.