Drink-driving amongst teenagers fell by 40% between 1984 and 1997
according to a study by Patrick O'Malley of the University of
Michigan, published in the Journal of Public Health and reported
in the San Francisco Chronicle. The greatest decline was up until
1992, and since then figures have evened out. The Government has
also recorded a 59% reduction in alcohol related traffic fatalities
amongst 15 - 20 year olds between 1982 and 1997 according to alcohol
expert Ralph Hingson of Boston University.
The industry, via associations such as the Century Council should
be recognised for its contribution towards the lowering of these
figures, through its responsible attitude in conveying the 'Sensible
Drinking' Message.