Summer is fast approaching, with the warmer weather and outdoor activities we also see an increase in drunk driving arrests. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the most alcohol-related traffic fatalities occur on Fourth of July beating out even New Year’s Eve in California. Jurisdictions across California and the nation have come together to combat drinking and driving. Many have implemented sobriety programs that require repeat drunk drivers to wear alcohol monitoring devices as a condition of their release and treatment. The Secured Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring (SCRAM) device has saved lives by keeping drunk drivers off the road. It works by monitoring alcohol consumption of a wearer. A person must remain completely sober while wearing the device to avoid a violation. The device tests for alcohol consumption every 30 minutes and is worn for an average of 90 days.
Jurisdictions that have implemented sobriety campaigns such as the 24/7 Sober Program have seen a significant reduction in DUI recidivism. Participants aren’t just avoiding drinking and driving; they are remaining completely sober throughout the entire monitoring period often causing a change in lifestyle. Many don’t see that alcohol is a problem in their life until they are forced to make a change. Once they are required, as a condition of probation or release to remain sober and are monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they are able to make changes. Many use it as a wake-up call. The effect is positive for everyone from the participant, to the monitoring agency and to society at large.