Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). AFI 31-204, Air Force Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision, applies to everyone with military installation driving privileges. It establishes court-hearing procedures, convictions, NJP, civilian administrative action, or appropriate punishment for violation of intoxicated driving policies. This instruction defines intoxicated driving as operating a motor vehicle under intoxication caused by alcohol or drugs. When driving on a military installation, individuals are considered intoxicated when they have a blood-alcohol content of .08 or higher (or local jurisdiction, such as state blood-alcohol content limits). These conditions require a mandatory 1-year driving privilege suspension for the first offense. Driving privileges may also be suspended if an individual refuses to submit to a blood-alcohol content test. Supervisors should become aware of local and state laws governing DWI and driving under the influence (DUI).

Identification and Referral

Each person is responsible for exercising good judgment in the use of alcohol when not otherwise restricted by public law or military directive. The Air Force reviews members’ drinking habits that affect public behavior, duty performance, or physical and mental health. The Air Force provides nonpunitive assistance to members seeking help for an alcohol problem. In assessing potential drug- and alcohol-related problems, your supervisory role is to identify subordinates with problems early and to motivate them to seek and accept help.

Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse:

• Deteriorating duty performance
• Unexplained or frequent absences
• Frequent errors in judgment
• Financial irresponsibility
• Arrests or legal problems
• Increased use of alcohol
• Memory loss
• Morning drinking and hangovers
• Health problems related to drinking
• Violent behavior
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Dramatic mood swings
• Denial or dishonesty about use
• Failed attempts to stop or cut down
• Concerns expressed by family or friends

As depicted above, many signs and symptoms of SA exist. The presence of these signs, though common indicators of SA, does not always substantiate a SA problem. It is impossible to note all the behavioral symptoms that may suggest SA or to precisely define their sequence and severity. They are exactly as stated— signs and symptoms. Do not use these signs to make a conclusive diagnosis of SA—this responsibility lies with the ADAPT Program personnel. However, if any of these signs is present, it may suggest a potential problem exists for the member. Talk with the member and explain why you are concerned. It is normal to fear discussing concerns. However, it is better to address the concern early before the problem gets out of control. Document and discuss specific instances of unusual behavior with the supervisor, first sergeant, or unit commander. This will help in expediting the care a subordinate may need. When additional professional assistance is needed, do not hesitate to document and then refer troubled subordinates to the ADAPT Program. NOTE: Help must be offered to every individual. Any time a person acknowledges an SA problem, notify the supervisor, first sergeant, or unit commander.

Identifying Substance Abusers

For the Air Force to have an effective SA prevention and treatment program, there must be a means of identifying service members experiencing problems with their substance use. Although commanders play a major role in identifying substance users, members should be aware of how commanders must proceed in various circumstances. Due to the nature of the position NCOs hold within the unit, they also play an important part in the identification process. There are basically five identification methods: Medical Care Referrals, Commander’s Identification, Drug Testing, Medical Purposes, and Self-identification.

Medical Care Referrals. Medical personnel must notify the unit commander and the ADAPT Program manager (ADAPTPM) when a member:

• Is observed, identified, or suspected to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Receives treatment for an injury or illness that may be the result of SA.
• Is suspected of abusing substances.
• Is admitted as a patient for alcohol or drug detoxification.

Commander’s Identification. Unit commanders must refer all service members for assessment when substance use is suspected to be a contributing factor in any incident (for example, DUI, public intoxication, drunk and disorderly, reporting to duty under the influence, spouse or child abuse and maltreatment, underage drinking, positive drug test, or when notified by medical personnel). When commanders or supervisors fail to refer a member with suspected or identified SA problems, it places the service member at increased risk for developing more severe SA problems and may jeopardize others’ safety and, ultimately, mission accomplishment.