Evaluation of a Full-Time Ride Service Program: Aspen, Colorado's Tipsy TaxiService

摘要

This report summarizes a study of Aspen Colorado's Tipsy Taxi ride serviceprogram. This service, which provides a free ride home for persons who are too intoxicated to drive, has been in place since December 1983. Funded through donations from the community, this program is available 365 days a year, 24 hours per day. The program is distinctive in that it has been operating for sixteen years and is self-sustaining. An examination of injury crashes as a proxy of alcohol-related crashes revealed a significant reduction associated with implementation of the program. It is argued that a year-round alternative transportation program is an important component of a comprehensive anti-DUI countermeasure program, which should also include deterrence components such as public information, enforcement, and sanctioning.