Alcohol perceptions and driving decisions among adolescents: Exploring the role of peer and parental influences in Virginia

Objective: This study aims to explore the role of peer and parental influences on adolescent driving behaviors, particularly concerning distracted and alcohol-impaired driving, in light of the significant number of road accidents and fatalities involving young drivers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the IMPACT program. Adolescents aged 14 to 19 in the Richmond area were recruited from local high schools through convenience sampling. Parental consent was obtained via media release forms provided by Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), with students having the option to opt out of participation. Self-report surveys were administered during IMPACT program events and captured via REDCap. The surveys included demographic information, driving history, driving behaviors, alcohol attitudes, drinking and driving behaviors, and a driving knowledge section. Results: The mean age of participants was 15.230 years (SD = 1.545). Gender distribution was as follows: Female 53.1% and male 42.1%. Racial distribution included White/Caucasian (48.9%), Black/African American (22.4%), and multiple races (8.8%). Peer influence on drinking and driving was significant (P = .038). Driving under the influence was associated with both parental and peer influence (P < .050). A positive correlation was found between peer digital distraction and car crashes (coefficient = 0.038, P = .038). Additionally, parental alcohol-impaired driving was linked to decreased positive attitudes among adolescents toward driving under the influence (coefficient = -0.024, P = .000). Though parent distracted driving positively influenced adolescent driving behavior, this effect was not statistically significant (coefficient = 0.008, P = .320). Conclusion: The findings indicate a significant reduction in risky behaviors such as drinking and driving and an increase in seat belt use among adolescents. There is heightened awareness regarding the dangers of texting and driving. A multifaceted approach was effective in improving attitudes and practices related to driving safety.