Researcher: Melissa Walden, Ph.D., P.E.

Sponsor: Texas Department of Transportation and Sam Houston State University

Law enforcement officers employ decision making in assessing suspected impaired drivers based on training they receive. Interestingly, one of the most complex decision making activities undertaken by the law enforcement officer is the investigation involving drivers who are suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or other drugs. This project focused on the evaluation procedures detailed in the DEC Program that trains police officers to recognize and classify possible alcohol and/or drug impairment. The analysis sought to
examine the data collected as part of the Drug Recognition Expert’s evaluation to determine which data provided the officer with the best means to accurately identify the drug categories responsible for the impairment.

For more information contact Melissa Walden.