[Impact of a drink-driving detection program to prevent traffic accidents (Villa Clara Province, Cuba)]. / Impacto de un programa de detección de conductores bajo los efectos del alcohol en la prevención de accidentes de tráfico (provincia de Villa Clara [Cuba]).

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of a method to reduce road traffic accidents and their consequences in the province of Villa Clara (Cuba). DESIGN: From May to October 2003, active surveillance of drink-driving was carried out. Analysis of chronological series was used. RESULTS: A total of 805 (12.46%) drivers were found to be under the effect of alcohol. Traffic accidents, deaths, and injuries decreased by 29.9%, 70.8% and 58.7%, respectively, in comparison with a similar period in 2002. The number of accidents in May, June, July, September and October fell below the historical low. The number of deaths was lowest in May, August and September. The number of injuries in July fell below the historical low. CONCLUSION: The interventions carried out proved useful in preventing traffic accidents and their consequences.