Model Impaired Driving Records Information Systems Tying Together Data Systems to Manage Impaired Drivers

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration2011PDFResearch PaperGreer, PamelaCambridge Systematics, Inc.United States. Department of Transportation. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Office of Impaired Driving and Occupant ProtectionCiccel, DeCarloUnited States. Department of Transportation. National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationUnited StatesCourtsCrash recordsCrash reportsDriver licensingDriver recordsDrunk drivingImpaired driversInformation systemsLaw enforcementStatesData dictionariesModel impaired driving records informationDOT HS 811 489DTRTAC-07-P-00076In 2002, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conducted a demonstration project named the Model Impaired Driving Records Information System (MIDRIS) to document how States could further improve and expand existing data systems. In addition to funding, NHTSA provided ongoing support and guidance on the components of MIDRIS, and recommended implementation steps. In 1997, NHTSA published Driving While Intoxicated Tracking Systems (DOT 808 520) to focus attention on impaired driving data and the benefits a comprehensive data tracking system could provide to States and localities working to prevent the problem. Since that time most States implemented some components of the system, but few connected the dots and linked critical data elements from three key stake holders \u2013 law enforcement, State driver\u2019s licensing agencies, and the courts. Four States were selected for the demonstration, Alabama, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. Each of the pilot States had made progress on a MIDRIS prior to their selection and used the NHTSA support to make enhancements and improvements. This report documents the experience of the four States and highlights the best practices achieved through NHTSA's support. The report also provides examples of how these States made system-wide improvements in areas that until recently seemed too costly or complicated to implement.131