DWI Courts in Michigan: An Examination of the Interlock Effect on Drunk Driving Recidivism

Abstract This study uses a quasi-experimental, matched group, research design to examine the effectiveness of ignition interlocks as a means of reducing drunk driving recidivism, among repeat offenders, that participated in a sample of selected DWI courts in the state of Michigan. The results of the analysis show that DWI court participants under interlock restrictions were less likely to receive another drunk driving conviction, up to 4 years post initial conviction, as compared to subjects in DWI court (without interlock restrictions), and to matched standard probationers, who did not participate in a DWI court. Theoretical and policy implications, as well as directions for future research, are discussed.