Researcher: Maury Dennis, Ph.D.

Sponsor: Texas Department of Transportation

Much work has been done in Texas to reduce the number of traffic crashes involving alcohol and other drugs; however, the percentage of fatal crashes in Texas is still 25 percent higher than the U.S. average. Even with new laws, it is often difficult to obtain convictions, due in many cases to the lack of ability to analyze, prepare and deliver information to judges and juries on the actual effects of alcohol and other drugs, increased risk of death as blood alcohol concentration rises, and the probability of crash responsibility when alcohol and/or other drugs are involved. Convictions are more likely when such information is explained thoroughly and effectively to juries. Even if a prosecutor is knowledgeable in this area, this information must be provided by someone other than the prosecutor, and few individuals have been trained to testify on this topic. Thus, there is a need to develop a cadre of professionals who can conduct expert witness analysis and provide testimony in alcohol/drug/traffic cases. To address this problem, CTS staff developed and refined an Expert Witness Training Curriculum which included a pilot study and two full-scale training sessions. The Expert Witness program successfully trained 26 individuals in expert witness analysis and testimony in alcohol/drug/traffic cases.  Evaluation of the program showed an overall 19 percent knowledge increase and an overall program rating of 9 out of 10. CTS researchers will continue to provide training throughout Texas.

For more information contact Maury Dennis.