Do people believe that automated vehicle is the solution to impaired driving?

The emerging Automated Vehicle (AV) technology has the potential to address impaired driving (i.e., driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs), a significant contributor to road fatalities. Previous research on impaired driving behavior has largely relied on simulation-based studies or public surveys. While simulation studies provide valuable insights from the perspective of driving behaviors, overlooking the possibility that impaired drivers may choose to take over voluntarily due to mistrust in AV technology. It is highly needed to explore such behavioral intentions through a statewide survey approach. The results show that 70.8% of respondents believe AV technology can reduce crashes caused by impaired driving. Among them, 58.0% prefer riding in a Level 5 AV under such conditions. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to identify underlying factors, including socio-demographics, affordability, perceptions of AV benefits and concerns, and AV familiarity. The SEM analysis revealed that younger individuals, those with higher income, and those with greater familiarity with AVs are more likely to support Level 5 automation for assisting impaired drivers. Additionally, perceptions of increased driving freedom and lower safety concerns were positively associated with greater acceptance of AV technology for reducing impaired driving-related crashes.