DOT Plays Statistical Mind Hockey

On Aug. 28, the Department of Transportation (DOT) cited its anti-drunk driving TV ads and tougher law enforcement for a big reduction in the number of DUI-related traffic deaths during 2007. But wait, isn't this the same Department of Transportation that on Aug. 13, reported that high gas prices had resulted in Americans driving 53.2 billion fewer miles since Nov. 2007? So, either the DOT's ads worked, or there were fewer DUI deaths because there were simply fewer cars on the road. Guess with statistics, you can have it both ways.

In a related story, acting chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board called the nation's college presidents suggestion that the legal drinking age be lowered to 18 from 21, a really bad idea that "would be a national tragedy to turn back the clock and jeopardize the lives of more teens."

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