Prospective Associations of 12th-Grade Drinking Intensity and Age 19/20 Driving-Related Consequences.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to examine driving-related consequences associated with levels of drinking intensity among a national sample of young adult drinkers.

METHODS

Data come from a nationally representative sample of 12th graders sampled annually in 2005-2014 with subsamples surveyed at age 19/20 years. Multivariable logistic regressions examined associations of 12th-grade drinking intensity (0-4, 5-9, 10-14, and 15+ drinks in a row) with driving consequences at age 19/20 years.

RESULTS

Twelfth-grade binge drinkers (compared with nonbinge drinkers) were more likely to experience negative driving consequences at age 19/20 years. Among binge drinkers, 15+ drinkers (compared with 5-9 drinkers) in 12th grade had increased the risk of negative drinking consequences at age 19/20 years.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that while underage binge drinkers are at an increased risk for having driving consequences, those who engage in higher intensity drinking are at even greater risk for these consequences. High-intensity drinkers may require additional screening or intervention to reduce future driving-related consequences.