The discussion notes that alcohol is the most frequently selected drug among youth, and its abuse is increasing among teenagers and young adults. Underage drinking and driving is the leading killer of young drivers and accounts for a high incidence of injuries and property damage. As a result, all States now require the minimum age of 21 years for the legal possession and consumption of alcohol. Although youths in the formerly legal age group of 18-20 express considerable discontent with new higher legal age limits, research has revealed a decrease in fatal nighttime traffic accidents among young drivers after the imposition of the new limits, stronger penalties for drunk driving, and increased efforts by police to apprehend drunk drivers. However, debate continues over the effectiveness of this approach to drunk driving. Future research should explore the use of educational strategies designed to prevent the injuries, property damage, and traffic fatalities caused by drunk driving. 55 references