Executive SummaryMany States and local jurisdictions have cellular reporting programs to aid drivers in the reporting of impaired drivers, but no study has systematically examined the frequency or use of such programs. The objective of this project was to identify States that use statewide cellular drunk driving reporting programs that provide free airtime and allow motorists with cell phones to dial a special number (such as *DUI) to report suspected drunk drivers. Through contacts at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Regional Offices and State Highway Safety Offices, researchers identified the entity in each State and United States territory most likely to be able to discuss cellular-telephone-based reporting of impaired drivers. Each person was then contacted via telephone and was asked to provide information regarding the program. Although the information received from States was not always complete, we learned that 6 States have dedicated programs to report DWI drivers, and 45 reported “911” or general emergency programs that can be used to report DWI drivers. In most cases, calls to report DWI drivers made from cellular phones are routed to the appropriate law enforcement agency regardless of whether the reporting individual dialed a dedicated number or 911. Both dedicated DWI and 911-type programs may serve equally well in reporting DWI drivers. These findings are consistent with NHTSA’s Office of Emergency Medical Services’ cellular 911 program encouraging a single point of phone contact for all roadway emergencies. NHTSA encourages the reporting of suspected impaired driving as an emergency matter. |