Identifying and Validating Best Practice Responses for DUI Homicide Survivors

• In Event: Organizational Responses to Homicides and Mass Shootings

Abstract

Over 10,000 individuals are killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in the U.S. each year (CDC 2017), subjecting families, friends, and survivors to psychological, health, and financial harms. Despite these negative consequences, survivors of DUI homicides are largely overlooked by victim services. This lack of attention has led to policy and practice problems including improper death notifications, delayed or nonexistent services, and a lack of collaboration among first responder, treatment, and victim services agencies resulting in survivors “fending for themselves” during periods of major emotional and psychological grief. In light of these problems, Palm Beach County Victim Services is implementing a program to better assist survivors of DUI homicides. To inform the development of this program, the current study will (1) review preexisting victim services practices for DUI homicide survivors in Palm Beach County, (2) assess the types of services provided and the timing of those services, (3) identify gaps and needs in services, and (4) conduct outcome assessments of the effectiveness of the newly provided services. The overall goal of the study is to improve the wellbeing of survivors of DUI homicides, and to promote the use of best practices in responding to DUI homicides.

Authors

• Thomas G. Blomberg, Florida State University

• Jillian Turanovic, Florida State University

• George Pesta, Florida State University

• Darinka Milojevic, Florida State University