A recent report issued by the Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF) found that drunk driving arrests among women increased by 29 percent over just one decade - which is counter to popular belief that drinking and driving is predominantly a problem for males.
In 1980, only 9 percent of those arrested for DWI were female, however, that percentage rose to 15 percent by 1996 - and then 20 percent by 2004. Moreover, from 1997 to 2007 the number of women arrested for DWI had increased an astounding 29 percent.
Additionally, the study interestingly noted that the average woman caught operating while intoxicated is better educated and older than the average male. They also tend to be the primary caregivers to their children, and often have lower paying jobs.
Texas Women Driving Drunk
The report also specifically shed light on Texas women who drink and drive - the report noted that among Texas women DWI offenders in treatment, one of the strongest predictors of the women not being able to stay sober was if they were living with someone else who had substance abuse problems.
The TIRF report also noted another Texas study that found that women arrested for DWI were most likely to have problems with sedatives or opiates, while males were more likely to have issues with alcohol and marijuana.
Interestingly, the report also used data from Texas as a national comparison point. A review showed that the crash characteristics of Texas female drivers involved in fatal collisions that tested positive for alcohol were largely consistent with the national profile. This was true of the three other states sampled - Ohio, New Jersey and Florida - indicating that the problem is not regionalized.
As the report illustrates, men are not the only ones accused on drinking and driving. However, if you are either a man or woman who has been charged with DWI, it is important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in your area today to be advised of your rights.
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