Missouri study links drunk driving to "urgency" personality trait

April 16, 2013

Missouri study links drunk driving to "urgency" personality trait

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Researchers at the University of Missouri have found a correlation between drunk driving and certain personality traits, which they believe may help explain why certain individuals drink and drive even though they disapprove of the idea while sober. The research could aid in the development of programs aimed at preventing drunk driving accidents in Missouri.

Drinking triggers "urgency" in some drivers

In two separate studies, psychologists at the University of Missouri examined the connection between drunk driving behavior and a specific type of impulsivity called "urgency." The researchers found that participants who reported driving under the influence of alcohol were more likely than other participants to show a high degree of urgency after consuming alcohol. Notably, when sober, these individuals did not differ from other participants in their degree of urgency.

In one study, researchers gave participants the option of waiting five seconds to receive a small reward (five cents) or waiting 15 seconds to receive a larger reward (15 cents). Participants were tested once while sober and once after drinking alcohol. While sober, no difference was found between those who reported drunk driving and those who did not. However, after consuming alcohol, participants who admitted to drinking and driving were more likely to opt for a shorter wait time and smaller reward -- which researchers considered an expression of impulsivity.

A second study examined participants' attitudes and behaviors with regard to drunk driving, while also assessing each person's tendency to display impulsive behaviors. Individuals who expressed a higher degree of urgency were more likely to report drinking and driving.

Convenience is key to preventing drunk driving

The results of the studies suggest that the consumption of alcohol may trigger urgency in some individuals, making it more likely that they will give in to impulsive behavior like drinking and driving, even though they would not condone such behavior when sober. When under the influence of alcohol, these individuals may become more likely to choose the short-term "convenience" of driving over the safer but less-convenient option of arranging an alternative form of transportation.

The studies' authors hope that their findings may help prevent drunk driving accidents by encouraging city planners and policy makers to enact measures that provide impatient drinkers with faster access to taxis and public transportation -- for instance by placing taxi stands and bus stops near drinking establishments. In addition, by helping people to understand their own behavior, the authors hope their research will encourage people with impulsive tendencies to take the steps that are necessary to guard against drinking and driving.

Financial compensation for Missouri crash victims

People who have been injured or lost a loved one in a Missouri drunk driving accident may be able to receive compensation for their losses through the legal system. By filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim against the drunk driver who caused the crash, many Missouri accident victims are able to secure compensation for their medical bills, lost income and other expenses. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer for more information.