some states and provinces, is another suggested solution to the problem (Fontaine, 1992, p. 345). Re-education of individuals convicted of drunk driving offenses has also been implemented as a solution to the problem (Little, 1991, p. 576). Another solution suggested for the problem is treatment for an underlying alcohol abuse problem (Langworthy & Latessa, 1993, p. 265).
A research study is proposed that will test the effect of one of these approaches to the solution of the drunk driving problem. This approach will be a strict and swift penalty approach. This solution alternative will be represented by the presence or absence of laws within a state mandating the loss of driving privileges on a first driving under the influence (DUI) offense. This solution approach will be assessed within an economic benefit context.
The economic issue involved in the proposed research concerns is the economic benefits to society that may derive from the mandatory suspension of driving privileges (drivers licenses for first-time DUI (driving under the influence) offenders. The approved research question that will be investigated in relation to this issue is as follows: "What is the economic benefit to society for first time offenders to have their license revoked?" In the approved research question, the term "offenders" refers to DUI offenders, while the term "revoked" refers to the loss of driving privileges through either suspension or revocation action as the result of either criminal justice action or administrative action.
The term "economic benefit" in the approved research question will be operationalized as fatalities attributable to automobile crashes wherein the fault lay with a driver who was either a DUI first-offender or a DUI second-offender. The rationale underlying this operationalization is that the mandatory suspension of driving privileges upon a first-time DUI offense should deter driving under the influence both ...