A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found a significant reduction in traffic-related trauma cases and drunk driving conviction rates after Uber was introduced in the city of Houston. The study, “Association of Rideshare Use With Alcohol-Associated Motor Vehicle Crash Trauma,” noted the most dramatic decreases in trauma cases were among men and women under 30 years old.
The study confirms what MADD has believed for years – that rideshare apps offer a convenient transportation option that helps reduce the risk of drunk driving crashes, especially among younger drivers. The more options that are available, the easier it is to make the right choice to never drive impaired.
The study, by McGovern Medical School at UTHealth in Houston, reviewed trauma cases at two major trauma centers in Houston – the Red Duke Trauma Institute at Memorial Hermann and Harris Health Ben Taub General Hospital – between January 2007 and November 2019. Researchers also reviewed impaired driving convictions in Harris County, which covers the Houston area, from January 2007 to December 2018. They then compared trauma hospitalization rates and drunk driving conviction rates from 2007 through 2013, before Uber was introduced in Houston, with drunk driving conviction rates and trauma hospitalizations beginning in January 2014.
Among the findings:
No excuses – it’s easier than ever to find a safe ride home if your outing includes alcohol. Call Uber or Lyft, take public transportation, or designate a non-drinking driver.