SUBSTANCE ABUSE:
ARRESTS FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

What Was Measured?
Shown is the number of non-felony driving under the influence (DUI) arrests for the County of San Mateo over the past four fiscal years, as registered by the local District Attorney's office. -Me projected figure for 1995-96 is a target number set by alcohol and drug programs of San Mateo County.

Why Is It Important?
Persons driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs pose a serious threat to the safety and well-being of members of any community.  Although an increase in the number of DUI cases can reflect enforcement efforts, it may also represent an increase in the actual number of persons driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which equates to an increased probability that an accident will occur and that a serious injury or even fatality will ensue.

What Was Found?
In the most recent fiscal year, there were 4,377 non-felony DUI arrests.  This was a significant decrease from the previous year (5,193), and the year before (4,850).

What Is The Trend?
Although there have not been dramatic changes, the number of DUI arrests has fluctuated slightly over the past three years, with an increase from the 1992-93 fiscal year to the following year and a decrease the following year.  It is expected that with increased prevention and treatment efforts the number of DUI arrests will continue to decrease.

Source: San Mateo County 1995-1996 Budget Book

Researcher: Carolina Jané