State Blood Alcohol Concentration Testing and Reporting for Drivers Involved in Fatal Crashes

This report documents current State blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing and reporting practices and results for drivers involved in fatal crashes. It summarizes known BAC results by State for the years 1997 to 2009 for both fatally injured and surviving drivers. It provides an overview of State practices using information obtained from telephone discussions with all States and all NHTSA Regions. It documents case studies of 9 States (Alaska, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and South Dakota), each of which has improved or maintained high rates of BAC testing and reporting. Successful BAC testing and reporting involves three components: high testing rates, accurate and complete reporting, and careful management. This can be accomplished through laws, policies, or practices. The process involves testing, reporting, tracking, and follow-up. The context involves education, training, and management. A summary presents good practices and strategies for States that wish to improve their BAC testing and reporting.

http://www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/pdf/811661.pdf