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Analysis of the Traffic Safety System, 1975 - Final Report

NCJ Number
74823
Author(s)
M B Bear
Date Published
1979
Length
118 pages
Annotation
This study analyzes the operations, procedures, and effectiveness of the traffic safety system in Los Angeles County's mini-ASAP (Alcohol Safety Action Project) (California), specifically how it deals with persons arrested on charges of DUI (driving under the influence of intoxicants) during 1972-1975.
Abstract
The mini-ASAP covers the Rio Hondo, Citrus, and Pomona Court Districts of Los Angeles County. The study traced the impact which ASAP had traffic safety system by following four samples of DUIs through the system. Study results indicate significant impact by ASAP in law enforcement, judicial, rehabilitation, and recidivism areas. The number of DUI arrests increased significantly in the mini-ASAP during the operational years. With the exception of 1974, the proportion of arrestees convicted of DUI charges increased over time, and dismissals decreased. Presentence investigation procedures were established for all three courts in the mini-ASAP. Sentences tended to include less jail time and an increased use of probation with treatment referral. Treatment referrals increased over the operational years. While there was a significant decrease in court case continuances and in the number of cases going to trial, court processing time and failures to appear increased. In addition, treatment entries and completions increased significantly during the ASAP period. Finally, there was a significant trend for DUI recidivism to decrease over time. However, larger samples are needed to measure recidivism more accurately. Data is presented in 48 tables and 8 figures. The study methodology, data collection forms, statistical comparison of samples, and the California vehicle code for DUI and reckless driving are appended. (Author abstract modified)