WO2001018531A1

WO2001018531A1 - Method for reducing costs associated with inebriation

Info

Publication number: WO2001018531A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/024593
Authority: WO
Inventors: Evan L. Singer; Anthony L. Toranto
Original assignee: Guardian Angel Holdings, Inc.
Priority date: 1999-09-10
Filing date: 2000-09-08
Publication date: 2001-03-15
Also published as: AU7123400A

Abstract

The present invention relates to systems, methods, and compositions for reducing the costs associated with inebriation. Specifically, alcohol concentration tests are distributed to consumers to provide information regarding their level of inebriation (e.g., to test competency to operate a motor vehicle). The tests are provided to consumers by a party with an interest (e.g., financial interest) in reducing costs associated with inebriation (e.g., costs associated with drunk driving).

Description

METHOD FOR REDUCING COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH INEBRIATION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to systems, methods, and compositions for reducing the costs associated with inebriation. Specifically, alcohol concentration tests are distributed to consumers to provide information regarding their level of inebriation

(e.g., to test competency to operate a motor vehicle). The tests are provided to consumers by a party with an interest (e.g., financial interest) in reducing costs associated with inebriation (e.g., costs associated with drunk driving).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Significant costs are incurred on individuals, families, organizations, businesses, and societies through incidents caused by inebriated individuals. Harms include, but are not limited to, long-term health consequences from alcohol bulging, loss of work productivity during recovery periods, and motor vehicle accidents resulting in injuries, death, and property damage. The scope of the harm can be enormous, even for individual incidents as demonstrated by the Exxon Valdez disaster, resulting in substantial environmental damage and liability to the responsible individual and the corporation. With regard to alcohol-related auto accidents, approximately 15,000 people are killed, one million are injured, and 30,000 suffer permanent work-related disabilities every year (The Economic Cost of Motor Vehicle Crashes, NHTSA [1994]). Total annual economic costs associated with alcohol-related auto accidents have been estimated at 45 billion dollars with another 70 billion in quality of life costs (NHTSA [1994], supra).

Although some inebriation-related incidents are caused by individuals who knowingly act with disregard to their safety and the safety of others, many incidents are caused by impaired individuals who are not aware of their impairment and who, if aware of the risk, would avoid engaging in dangerous activities. Many individuals, some of whom may have had only a few drinks, operate motor vehicles impaired because they physically feel fine. Many of these drivers do not know that their bodies have absorbed enough alcohol to increase their risk of getting into an accident.

There is much need for a system that allows impaired individuals to check their alcohol concentration and to make an accurate determination of their fitness to engage in potentially dangerous activities. There are several devices that test individuals' alcohol concentration that are available in the marketplace today. However, many of these devices are too complex or expensive for use by individuals outside of a laboratory or clinical setting, or they are not accurate. Although a variety of simpler alcohol concentration tests have been developed (See e.g., U.S. Patent Nos. 4,900,666, 4,786,596, 5,290,683, 5,032,506, 5,429,931, 5,525,481, and 5,141,854), none have been made widely available or have found any significant use by individuals. Thus, there is a need for a system that not only provides easy to use and accurate alcohol concentration determinations, but is accessible to individuals and is designed to induce widespread use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

For example, the present invention provides a system comprising: one or more alcohol concentration tests; an insurance provider (e.g., including, but not limited to, an auto insurance provider) in control of the one or more alcohol concentration tests; one or more policyholders of the insurance provider; and a distribution system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders. In some embodiments, the distribution system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders comprises a system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders at a subsidized cost. In other embodiments, the distribution system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders comprises a system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders at no cost. The present invention further contemplates systems wherein the distribution system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders comprises a system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders at a reduced cost. In yet other embodiments, the distribution system may involve the payment of cost or increased costs by the policyholder, either directly, or through increased premiums.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the distribution system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders comprises a system wherein the one or more alcohol concentration tests are transferred to the one or more policyholders before a high risk time period. In some embodiments, the high risk time period comprises a holiday period.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the one or more alcohol concentration tests further comprise delivery systems. In preferred embodiments, the one or more alcohol concentration tests comprise saliva-based concentration tests. In yet other preferred embodiments, the one or more alcohol concentration tests undergo a detectable change at and above the presence of a predetermined concentration of alcohol, although the present invention contemplates other readouts (e.g., gradient readouts). In particularly preferred embodiments, the detectable change comprises a color change. In some specific embodiments, the predetermined concentration of alcohol corresponds to a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04%. In some embodiments of the present invention the one or more alcohol concentration tests further comprise written instructional materials.

The present invention also provides a method comprising: providing one or more alcohol concentration tests, an insurance provider in control of the one or more alcohol concentration tests, and one or more policyholders of the insurance provider; and distributing the one or more alcohol concentration tests from the insurance provider to the one or more policyholders. In some embodiments, the distributing of the one or more alcohol concentration tests from the insurance provider to the one or more policyholders comprises distributing the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more policyholders at a subsidized cost or at no cost, although the present invention further contemplates distributing at reduced cost, at cost, or at increased cost.

The present invention further provides a system comprising: one or more alcohol concentration tests; an organization in control of the one or more alcohol concentration tests; one or more consumers; and a distribution system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more consumers. In some embodiments, the organization has a financial interest in reducing drunk driving. In yet other embodiments, the organization is a business, such as an insurance company. In some embodiments, the distribution system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more consumers comprises a system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more consumers at a subsidized cost or at no cost, although the present invention further contemplates distributing at reduced cost, at cost, or at increased cost. In yet other embodiments, the distribution system for transferring the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more consumers comprises a distribution system wherein the one or more alcohol concentration tests are transferred to the one or more consumers before a high risk time period (e.g., a holiday period).

The present invention also provides a method comprising: providing one or more alcohol concentration tests, an organization in control of the one or more alcohol concentration tests (e.g., including, but not limited to a business such as an insurance company), and one or more consumers; and distributing the one or more alcohol concentration tests from the organization in control of the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more consumers. In some embodiments, the distributing of the one or more alcohol concentration tests from the organization to the one or more consumers comprises distributing the one or more alcohol concentration tests to the one or more consumers at a subsidized cost or at no cost, although the present invention further contemplates distributing at reduced cost, at cost, or at increased cost. In yet other embodiments, the method the distributing of the one or more alcohol concentration tests from the organization to the one or more consumers comprises distributing the one or more alcohol concentration tests from the organization to the one or more consumers before a high risk time period.

The present invention further contemplates systems and methods comprising multiple organizations (e.g., multiple organizations with financial interests in reducing drunk driving including, but not limited to, businesses such as insurance companies), wherein each organization participates in obtaining tests and/or distributing (or managing distribution of) alcohol concentration tests to consumers (e.g., policyholders). For example a first organization may pay for advertising associated with the distribution (e.g., obtaining goodwill), a second organization (e.g., an insurance company) may manage distribution of tests to a third organziation (e.g., a restaurant or insurance agent or broker), who distributes the tests to consumers.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 shows a schematic of one embodiment of a risk reduction system of the present invention.

Figure 2 shows a schematic of cost savings resulting from one embodiment of a risk reduction system of the present invention.

Figure 3 shows a diagram of insurance policyholders to be targeted in some embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 4 shows risk ratios for various populations at particular BAC levels.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to systems, methods, and compositions for reducing the costs associated with inebriation. Specifically, alcohol concentration tests are distributed to consumers to provide information regarding their level of inebriation (e.g., to test competency to operate a motor vehicle). The tests are provided to consumers by a party with an interest (e.g. , financial interest) in reducing costs associated with inebriation (e.g., costs associated with drunk driving).

As discussed above, many of the costs associated with alcohol-related accidents could be prevented if individual alcohol consumers were capable of making a self- assessment of their capacity to engage in potentially dangerous activities. Although the inebriated individual often bears the greatest risk of harm from alcohol-related incidents, they may not have the motivation, knowledge, materials, or ability to take effective steps in preventing undesired alcohol-related incidents. The present invention provides a system that addresses the unmet need of providing individuals with easy to use and readily accessible alcohol concentration tests. The systems and methods of the present invention do not require the individual to incur substantial costs or expend substantial resources in obtaining the alcohol concentration tests—greatly increasing the likelihood that the tests are used and the associated benefits incurred. In some embodiments of the present invention, the alcohol concentration tests are purchased, manufactured, and or distributed to or for the individual alcohol consumer by a second entity (i.e., an entity or party other than the policyholder) with an interest in reducing the risks associated with the individual's alcohol consumption.

For example, the costs (e.g., direct financial costs and liability) associated with motor vehicle accidents are borne by a number of entities, including, but not limited to, the individuals involved in the accident; peers of the individuals involved in the accident; alcohol manufacturers, distributors, and sellers; insurance companies; health care providers; employers; taxpayers; universities; schools; and local, regional, and national governments. Additionally, groups such as religious organizations, anti-drunk driving advocacy groups, and the like have interests in reducing motor vehicle accidents caused by drunk driving. Each of these groups has interests, whether personal, economic, or public interest, that provide motivation to reduce the number of and severity of alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents. The present invention provides systems that allow interested parties to realize their portion of reduced costs when alcohol-related incidents are avoided following a decision not to drive by individual alcohol consumers.

Specifically, the interested secondary parties provide alcohol concentration tests at no cost or at a subsidized cost to the individual consumers. Thus, the secondary party provides the convenience of delivering the test to the individual, lowers or eliminates cost barriers to acquiring the tests, and, optionally, provides associated instructional materials that increase the use of the materials, knowledge of the alcohol consumer, and interpretability of the test. Although it is not obvious that the secondary parties would have a sufficient motivation to provide consumers with alcohol concentration tests, the present invention provides systems that allow secondary parties to capture a sufficient benefit from the reduction in alcohol-related incidents to justify the cost of providing the tests to consumers.

For example, in some embodiments of the present invention, auto insurance companies distribute alcohol concentration tests to their policyholders to reduce the number of accidents, claims, and costs associated with alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents (e.g., auto, boat, watercraft, motorcycle, aircraft, and snowmobile accidents). Auto insurance companies paid over 20 billion dollars for crashes that involved alcohol in 1994 (NHTSA [1994], supra). The ability to reduce these payments would be of great financial benefit to insurance companies. This is particularly true because many alcohol-related accidents are caused by individuals who are not within identified "high- risk" groups and thus, cannot be accounted for in higher premium payments. Through use of the systems of the present invention, the insurance companies gain the further benefit of increasing their public image, and increasing customer bases and customer loyalty for both alcohol- and non-alcohol-consuming customers. This goodwill is not trivial, as 82% of people of driving age consider drinking and driving a threat to themselves and their families (Nat'l Survey of Drinking and Driving Attitudes & Behavior; NHTSA [1993]), and would be supportive of efforts to reduce this threat.

A number of risk reduction systems have been implemented in the past by insurance companies such as premium discounts given to policyholders for anti-lock brakes, air bags, alarm systems and the like and distribution of educational videos that discuss driving risks to policyholders. Although these systems have successfully reduced crashes, claims, and pay-outs, they do not directly target increased costs associated with impaired operation of a motor vehicle.

Several attempts have been made by insurance companies to reduce impaired driving risks. Such systems include anti-drunk driving education videos and brochures distributed to youth before prom-night, expensive breath alcohol tests given to police forces by insurance companies, and anti-drunk driving radio commercials sponsored by insurers.

With regard to distributing educational material to youth before prom, because drunk driving is pervasive among all age groups (NHTSA [1993], supra), this system has not reduced the drunk driving risks for most policyholders. Studies show that the average age and demographic profile of impaired drivers is approximately the same as that of the general population (NHTSA [1993], supra)— so it is necessary to target more than just high school students. In addition, because approximately 50 percent of drunk drivers have perfect driving records (i.e., no accidents or moving violations) and because 68 percent of drunk driving arrests are of first time DUI offenders (Annual Report of the California DUI Management Information System, CA DVM, January [1996]), even insurance companies that only take "good" drivers have a large percentage of drunk drivers in their policyholder populations, making it necessary to target all or large subsets of policyholders. Furthermore, it is not clear that the educational material is carefully considered or prevents driving events when the individual feels fine, but is legally or actually impaired.

With regard to distributing expensive breath alcohol tests to police forces, because approximately 1000 impaired driving events occur for every 1 arrest (Economic Report of the President [1996]; and NHTSA [1993], supra), this system has not effectively reduced drunk driving risks of insurers. With regard to sponsoring anti-drunk driving radio commercials, it is unclear how much this has decreased insurer's drunk driving risks or individual's self-assessment abilities.

Insurance companies have never introduced a risk reduction system that uses an actual alcohol concentration test to help people make better driving decisions after drinking. For example, some people who have two drinks at a restaurant feel fine and think they are sober, but actually are impaired. Sixty percent of drivers who consume alcohol decide whether or not they are too impaired to drive based on the way they physically feel (Driving Under the Influence: A Report to Congress on Alcohol Limits, NHTSA, October [1992]). At 0.05% blood alcohol concentration, most people feel fine but are 39% more likely to be involved in an accident than a sober person (Borkenstein et al., The Role of the Drinking Driver in Traffic Accidents, Bloomington, IN, Department of Police Administration, Indiana University [1964]). Although metabolism rates vary, a person who weighs 195 pounds who has two drinks in one hour may have an approximate alcohol concentration of 0.05%. Making decisions based on the way they feel, many people decide to drive when they are more likely to be involved in an accident, adding to insurance companies' risks. Prior to the present invention, no risk reduction systems used by insurance companies offered policyholders a direct check of their alcohol levels as a means to assess whether they are at an increased risk of getting into a crash, including conditions where the policyholder feels fine.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention, insurance companies or other interested secondary parties provide consumers (e.g., alcohol consumers and policyholders) with one or more alcohol concentration tests at no cost. For example, an insurance company may provide alcohol concentration tests to all of, or one or more subsets of, its policyholders during regular intervals or before or during high risk periods. In preferred embodiments, the alcohol concentration tests are portable and durable and can be carried and stored in a wallet. The alcohol consumer may use the test at home as a method of learning how to gauge physical symptoms associated with particular blood alcohol concentrations. The alcohol consumer may also read instructional and educational materials that accompany the test, gaining a better understanding of the relationship between alcohol impairment and accidents (e.g., although 80% of the public has heard of "blood alcohol concentration", only 20% know the legal blood alcohol concentrations in their state [Determine Reasons for Repeat Drinking and Driving, NHTSA (1996)]). In preferred embodiments, the test is used following alcohol consumption as a method for aiding the determination of fitness to drive. If the test indicates BAC levels associated with risk of driving, the consumer chooses not to drive, reducing the risk of accidents, insurance claims, and payouts by the insurance company. In some embodiments, a group of alcohol consumers are each tested to determine the most suitable driver or drivers within the group. In other embodiments, an alcohol consumer, upon receiving a result indicating impairment, waits for a time period and conducts subsequent testing until the results suggest fitness to operate a motor vehicle.

In addition to insurance companies, a variety of other secondary parties have a financial interest in reducing costs associated with drunk driving. For example, 25% of first year medical costs for hospitalized persons involved in drunk driving-related automobile accidents are paid for by taxpayers through Medicaid and Medicare (Highway Traffic Safety Programs: Effectiveness and Impact on Taxes and Health Care, NHTSA, February [1993]). Thus, taxpayers, state and federal governments, and healthcare providers have a financial interest in reducing drunk driving-related injuries.

Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention, alcohol providers such as bars, restaurants, and alcohol manufacturers and distributors reduce their civil liability risks and increase their public image and customer loyalty by providing alcohol concentration tests at no cost or at a reduced cost to alcohol consumers. For example, in some embodiments, restaurants reduce civil liability by having alcohol concentration tests available to consumers. In some embodiments, the restaurant may implement a wait-and-retest program (e.g. , providing multiple tests and educational information and/or incentives such as free non-alcoholic beverages until a suitable test result is obtained). In some embodiments of the present invention multiple interested secondary parties are involved. For example, a restaurant and the restaurant's liability insurance company may each be involved in the production and/or distribution of alcohol concentration tests. In such embodiments, the insurance company reduces the risk of claim payments, while the restaurant reduces risks associated with civil or criminal liability and/or loss of goodwill. Definitions

To facilitate an understanding of the present invention, a number of terms and phrases are defined below:

As used herein, the term "alcohol concentration system" refers to a system comprising an alcohol concentration test. Alcohol concentration systems may optionally further comprise delivery systems (i.e., systems used to store, transport, and maintain assay tests and other items), packaging, instructional material, or other desired components and materials that aid in the use, handling, and/or maintenance of the alcohol concentration tests. As used herein, the term "alcohol concentration test" refers to any test capable of determining, either quantitatively or qualitatively, the concentration or presence of alcohol (e.g., ethanol) in a sample. Alcohol concentration tests include, but are not limited to, apparatuses or combinations of apparatuses that contain sample collection and analyte detection capabilities. Preferably, alcohol concentration tests are designed for self-assessment by individual alcohol consumers. In some embodiments, alcohol concentration tests are utilized with saliva samples. In some preferred embodiments, the readout of the alcohol concentration test provides an indication of the exact or approximate blood alcohol concentration of the user, as determined by the concentration of alcohol in the saliva sample. In still other preferred embodiments, the readout of the alcohol concentration test only provides an indication of the blood alcohol concentration of the user when the concentration is at or above one or more specific levels (e.g., predetermined levels), as determined by the concentration of alcohol in the saliva sample.

As used herein, the term "insurance provider in control of one or more alcohol concentration tests" refers to an insurance provider with access to, ownership of, possession of, or authority to manage one or more alcohol concentration tests, such that the insurance provider is capable of distributing or having distributed the tests to another entity (e.g., one or more policyholders). As used herein, the term "organization in control of said one or more alcohol concentration tests" refers to an organization (e.g., including, but not limited to, a business such as an insurance company, restaurant, bar, alcohol manufacturer, alcohol retailer, or alcohol distributor; or universities and the like) with access to, ownership of, possession of, or authority to manage one or more alcohol concentration tests, such that the organization is capable of distributing or having distributed the tests to another entity (e.g., consumers). An organization or a business with a financial interest in reducing drunk driving refers to a business or organization with an interest in reducing financial loss, liability, or loss of goodwill or reducing the risk of incurring financial loss, liability, or loss of goodwill.

As used herein, the term "distribution system" refers to systems capable of transferring and/or delivering materials from one entity to another or one location to another. For example, a distribution system for transferring alcohol concentration tests from an insurance company to its policyholder may comprise, but is not limited to, a packaging department, a mail room, and a mail delivery system. Alternately, the distribution system may comprise, but is not limited to, one or more delivery vehicles and associated delivery personnel, a display stand, and a distribution center (e.g., Secretary of State Offices, insurance provider branch offices, retail stores, and alcohol sales or distribution centers such as bars, restaurants, and alcohol retailers). In some embodiments of the present invention, interested parties (e.g., insurance companies) utilize a distribution system to transfer alcohol concentration tests to consumers at no cost, at a subsidized cost, or at a reduced cost. In some embodiments, the insurance company may recoup the cost of the test through insurance premiums. In other embodiments, the insurance company or other interested parties may charge consumers (e g-, directly or through increased premiums) for the alcohol concentration tests more than the cost to the insurance company or other interested parties. In such embodiments, consumers realize a benefit, for example, because of the convenience of the distribution system or because the distributor is able to reduce costs through bulk purchase or production. As used herein, the term "at a reduced cost" refers to the transfer of goods or services at a reduced direct cost to the recipient. In some embodiments, "at a reduced cost" refers to transfer of goods or services at no cost to the recipient. In some embodiments, when an insurance company provides alcohol concentration tests to policyholders at a reduced cost, the recipient is not directly charged the full price of the test. However, the reduced portion of the cost may be partially or totally recovered from premium increases of the policyholder or of the insured population, in general.

As used herein, the term "at a subsidized cost" refers to the transfer of goods or services, wherein at least a portion of the recipient's cost is deferred or paid by another party. In some embodiments, "at a subsidized cost" refers to transfer of goods or services at no cost to the recipient. In some embodiments, when an insurance company provides alcohol concentration tests to consumers at a subsidized cost, the recipient does not experience increased insurance premiums as a direct result of receiving the tests.

As used herein, the term "at no cost" refers to the transfer of goods or services with no direct financial expense to the recipient. For example, when alcohol concentration tests are provided by insurance companies to policyholder at no cost, the policyholder does not directly pay for the tests. As used herein, the term "sample" is used in its broadest sense. In one sense it can refer to a saliva sample. In another sense, it is meant to include a specimen or culture obtained from any source, including biological and environmental samples. Biological samples may be obtained from animals (including humans) and encompass fluids, solids, tissues, and gases. Biological samples include blood products (e.g., plasma and serum), saliva, urine, lachrymal fluid and the like. Environmental samples include environmental material such as surface matter, soil, water, and industrial samples. These examples are not to be construed as limiting the sample types applicable to the present invention.

As used herein, the term "reaction means" refers to compositions that provide for a reaction. For example, reaction means include, but are not limited to: enzyme, cofactors, and buffers for enzymatic reactions; ligands, analytes, or biosensors; and any other composition that facilitates a reaction. In one embodiment of the present invention, the reaction means comprises an alcohol dehydrogenase, NAD(P)H and/or NADH cofactors, a diaphorase, and a chromogen for colorimetrically detecting the presence of ethanol in a sample. In another embodiment of the present invention, the reaction means comprises an alcohol oxidase and chromogen. The term "biosensors" refers to any sensor that is partially or entirely composed of biological molecules. In a traditional sense, the term refers to "an analytical tool or system consisting of an immobilized biological material (such as enzyme, antibody, whole cell, organelle, or combination thereof) in intimate contact with a suitable transducer device which will convert the biochemical signal into a quantifiable electrical signal" (Gronow, Trends Biochem. Sci. 9: 336 [1984]). However, as used herein, the term biosensor is not limited to the incorporation or association with transducer devices. The present invention contemplates biosensors with and without transducer devices. As used herein, the term "collection site" refers to a portion of a composition capable of collecting a sample. Collection sites include, but are not limited to, wells, chambers, porous membranes, and absorbent materials. The term "absorbent material" includes, but is not limited to, cotton or other thin fiber-based material, paper (e.g., filter paper), cloth, sponge, and other absorbent materials. As used herein, the term "alcohol metabolizing enzymes" refers to any enzyme capable of reacting with an alcohol substrate. Alcohol metabolizing enzymes include but are not limited to alcohol dehydrogenases and alcohol oxidases.

As used herein, the terms "material" and "materials" refer to, in their broadest sense, any composition of matter. As used herein, the term "enzyme" refers to molecules or molecule aggregates that are responsible for catalyzing chemical and biological reactions. Such molecules are typically proteins but can also be short peptides, RNAs, or other molecules.

As used herein, the term "competitor" refers to any means capable of reducing the rate of a reaction. In some embodiments, competitors include, but are not limited to competing substrates that compete with another substrate for access to an enzyme active site. The competing substrate may have greater or lesser affinity for the active site than the other substrate. In other embodiments, competitors include, but are not limited to trapping agents that prevent a substrate from reacting with an enzyme or prevent a reaction product from being detected. As used herein, the term "direct colorimetric detection" refers to the detection of color changes without the aid of an intervening processing step (e.g., without conversion of a color change into an electronic signal that is processed by an interpreting device). It is intended that the term encompass visual observing (e.g., observing with the human eye). As used herein, the term "chromophore" refers to molecules or molecular groups responsible for the color of a compound, material, or sample.

As used herein, the term "aqueous" refers to a liquid mixture containing water, among other components.

As used herein, the term "protective encasement" refers to a thin covering, housing, wrapping or shielding comprising a material (e.g., foil) that acts to protect a composition such as a reaction means (e.g., to extend the shelf-life of the reaction means).

As used herein, the term "high risk time period" refers to a period of a year (e.g., a holiday weekend) wherein the risk of drunk driving crashes is historically or expected to be statistically higher than average. High risk time periods may be defined for entire populations or may be defined for population subsets based on characteristics including, but not limited to, age, gender, geographic location, and the like. For example, in embodiments where the entire population is used as the basis for determining the high risk time period, high risk time periods include, but are not limited to, holiday weekends. In embodiments where a population subset such as college students is used, the high risk time period may include a graduation weekend or sporting event night, even though the overall risk of drunk driving for the entire population may be lower during the time period. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following examples are provided in order to demonstrate and further illustrate certain preferred embodiments and aspects of the present invention and are not to be construed as limiting the scope thereof. One embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 1. In this embodiment, an auto insurance company is the secondary party with an interest in reducing cost associated with alcohol-related incidents. One of skill in the art will readily appreciate, upon reading the specification of the present invention, the applicability of the system of the present invention to other interested secondary parties.

The top frame (10) of the schematic in Figure 1 shows that an insurance company purchases, obtains, or manufacturers alcohol concentration systems (i.e., alcohol concentration tests, associated instructional and packaging materials, and the like). The present invention contemplates any means by which the insurance company comes into possession of alcohol concentration systems or is otherwise in control of the systems, such that the test are distributed to policyholders (20). In preferred embodiments, the insurance company purchases the alcohol concentration systems from a third party manufacturer. The insurance company may purchase a portion of the system (e.g., the alcohol concentration test) or the entire system. In some embodiments, the insurance company may wish to include their own information, logo, or other materials with the system. In another embodiment, the insurance company manufactures the entire alcohol concentration system. In yet other embodiments, the insurance company obtains the test without cost from a separate interested party (e.g., government agencies, other insurance companies, and public interest agencies). The alcohol concentration systems comprise an alcohol concentration test that allows users to determine their blood alcohol concentration (BAC), a surrogate measure of blood alcohol concentration, or some other measure of inebriation. In particularly preferred embodiments, the alcohol concentration test is contained within a single apparatus so that it is easy to use. Ease of use is desired so that drinkers impaired by alcohol can easily determine if they are too drunk to engage in potentially dangerous activities. In prefeπed embodiments, the assay test is small so that it is easy to carry. In some prefeπed embodiments, the assay test works fast so people do not have to wait long to make their decisions to drive after drinking. In other prefeπed embodiments, the assay test is accurate so individuals can make decisions based on coπect information. In yet other prefeπed embodiments, the assay test is reliable. In further prefeπed embodiments, the assay test results are easy to read and decipher so that drinkers impaired by alcohol can readily determine if they are too drunk to drive. In still other prefeπed embodiments, the assay test is durable so that it can be easily handled without breaking or becoming damaged. In prefeπed embodiments, the alcohol concentration tests provide a discreet and confidential way for policyholders to check alcohol levels, increasing the odds that such tests are used. Because drinking and driving is socially unacceptable, people may want to keep their drinking and driving choices and behavior private.

In other prefeπed embodiments, the alcohol concentration system further comprises a delivery system that stores multiple assay tests so that the assay tests can be accessed on one or more occasions. In prefeπed embodiments, the delivery system makes assay tests both easy to carry and durable. In some prefeπed embodiments, the delivery system provides placards for instructions, warnings, and labels. As mentioned above, the delivery system of the present invention stores multiple assay tests so that more than one test can be accessed on a single occasion or on two or more distinct occasions. This flexibility is important for two reasons. First, because individuals may use assay tests on separate occasions, the delivery system stores a sufficient quantity of tests to last an individual a period of days, weeks, or months, thereby diminishing the need to continually replenish assay test supply. Second, because individuals may use more than one assay test on a given occasion, for example, to determine if their alcohol concentration has dropped over time, the delivery system stores multiple assay tests. In prefeπed embodiments of the present invention, the delivery system makes assay tests easy to carry so that individuals can easily and discreetly put them in their pockets, wallets, or purses for use in situations away from home. For example, in some embodiments, the delivery system is the approximate size and shape of a credit card. In other prefeπed embodiments, the delivery system ensures the durability of the assay tests so the tests do not break or spoil easily. In some prefeπed embodiments, the delivery system provides large placards so that instructions, labels, warnings, or other text or diagrams are easy to notice and read. In prefeπed embodiments, the alcohol concentration test comprises a reaction means for detecting the presence of alcohol in a sample. A wide variety of reaction means are compatible with the present invention. Prefeπed reaction means are those that can be incorporated into the assay tests of the present invention and that can maintain a detectable signal in the presence of alcohol (e.g., ethanol). In some embodiments, the reaction means is selected and tailored to achieve desired reaction speed, accuracy, reliability, cost, and durability. For example, a variety of chemical reactions are known in the art that provide colorimetric detection of ethanol in a sample. Such chemical reactions are described in U.S. Patents 5,032,506, 4,900,666, 4,629,697, 4,642,286, 5,290,683, 5,589,349, 5,429,932, 5,429,931, 5,416,004, 4,786,596, 4,810,633, 4,734,360, 5,525,481, 5,141,854, 5,403,749, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. A wide variety of biosensors known in the art will also find use in the reaction means of the present invention, including, but not limited to the biosensors described in U.S. Patents 5,571,395, 5,792,621, and 5,500,351, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. In some embodiments of the present invention, the reaction means provide a colorimetric response that intensifies with increasing concentrations of alcohol (e.g., a gradient reading). In alternate embodiments, the reaction occurs at one particular or multiple threshold levels, as desired (See e.g., U.S. Patent 5,032,506). Thus, in some embodiments, the tests provide an "on/off colorimetric indicator when an individual's blood alcohol level exceeds a predetermined level (e.g., 0.04%, 0.05%, and 0.08%).

In other prefeπed embodiments, the alcohol concentration test comprises a housing or protective encasement. In some embodiments, the protective encasement comprises a material such as foil and covers the reaction means. In such embodiments, the protective encasement is broken and reveals the reaction means when the user operates the assay test. In still other embodiments, the protective encasement comprises a material such as foil and suπounds the entire assay test. In such embodiments, the user opens the protective encasement to reveal the assay test before operating the assay test.

In prefeπed embodiments, the alcohol concentration test is a saliva-based detection test. In one prefeπed embodiment of the present invention, a protective encasement is opened to reveal an assay test. The assay test operates by first saturating an absorbent material on one end of the assay test with a saliva sample. Depending on the reaction means used in the assay test, the user waits for a period of time and interprets the detectable signal produced by the reaction means. The user checks their alcohol concentration by viewing a color change or other detectable signal from the reaction means. In some embodiments, to make the assay test easy to decipher, the user compares the color changes to pictorial and/or written instructional material printed on the assay test or a delivery system.

Once the alcohol concentration system is produced, the insurance company initiates distribution of the system to its policyholder (20). In some embodiments of the present invention, the alcohol concentration systems are mailed to some or all of the insurance companies policyholders at one or more time points. In other embodiments, the alcohol concentration systems are made available at convenient pickup locations or are otherwise made available to consumers. In some embodiments, distribution involves transfer of the system from the insurance provider to the policyholder. In other embodiments, the insurance provider instructs a third party (e.g., third party manufacturer or distributor, agent, or broker) to deliver or make available the system to policyholders.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the alcohol concentration systems are distributed to policyholders prior to high risk events or other specific time points (23). High risk events such as holidays seasons have both a greater absolute number of accidents and a higher percentage of accidents that are alcohol-related. For example, during the 1997 holiday season, alcohol was a factor in 67% (New Year's, n=129), 50% (4th of July, n=253), 50% (Labor Day, n=254), and 47% (Memorial Day, n=239) of fatal automobile accidents during several major holiday periods. By targeting high risk events, the insurance company maximizes the return on its investment. In other embodiments of the present invention, the alcohol concentration systems are distributed at purchase of policy, at regular intervals (e.g., monthly), and/or upon request by policyholders. In some embodiments of the present invention, the alcohol concentration systems are distributed to all policyholders (25). In other embodiments, the systems are distributed to one or more subsets of policyholder such as high risk groups. For example, men are approximately two and a third times more likely to drive impaired than women (Nat'l Survey of Drinking and Driving Attitudes and Behavior, NHTSA [1993]). Also, certain groups may be targeted as more likely to change their drinking and driving behavior. Groups that are particularly suited for inclusion are: 1) individuals who are otherwise responsible people, who occasionally drive when they should not only because they lack a reliable means of determining whether they are impaired; and 2) drivers with low BACs who are more likely than highly impaired drivers to use, understand, and make informed decisions based on the test results.

These two groups are not completely independent of one another, as illustrated in Figure 3. Indeed, drivers with low alcohol levels make up most of the impaired driving population (e.g., on average, 95.6% of drivers have 0.00 to 0.03% BAC [includes sober individuals]; 3.5% have 0.04 to 0.09% BAC; 0.7% have 0.10 to 0.15% BAC; and 0.1% have 0.16% or higher BAC). Many of these lower alcohol level drivers (i.e., 0.04 to 0.09% BAC) feel fine physically, but make up approximately 75% of all impaired drivers.

In some embodiments, once the policyholders receive the alcohol concentration systems, goodwill is acquired by the insurance company (30) (e.g., for delivery of free or subsidized goods and for providing a means for curbing drunk driving), increasing the company's public image and customer loyalty. Increasing public image and customer loyalty and retention are extremely valuable (e.g., financially valuable) to an insurer. Because of the reduced risk of accidents, claims, and loss, the insurance company provides the systems at no cost, without an increase in the policyholder' s premium. The policyholder appreciates the free alcohol concentration system and the policyholder and others appreciate the distribution of a tool for reducing the risk of alcohol-related harms.

The alcohol concentration system reduces the number of drunk driving events (50) in several ways. First, the system is used by the policyholder following consumption of alcohol, where a driving event may occur (40). The test indicates the ability of the policyholder to safely operate a motor vehicle, and a decision not to drive is made if a positive result (e.g., a result indicating a blood alcohol level above a predetermined level) is obtained (41). In prefeπed embodiments, the policyholder has more than one alcohol concentration test to allow multiple assays at different time points or to reconfirm or clarify results of a first test. Second, the system is used by the policyholder following consumption of alcohol, regardless of whether a driving event may occur or not (42). The use of the system allows individuals to better gauge their physical capacities to a particular blood alcohol concentration (e.g., safe or unsafe blood alcohol concentration). Thus, when future drinking events occur, the individual can better judge their ability to operate a motor vehicle, independent of concomitant use of an alcohol concentration test (43). Third, the policyholder reviews education material that is sent with the alcohol concentration system (45) and better understands risks of drunk driving, choosing not to drive during future alcohol consumption events with this improved understanding (46). In some embodiments, the policyholder better understands the risks, simply through receiving the test. Each of these factors results in a decrease in drunk driving events (50), resulting in fewer accidents, deaths, injuries, and less property damage (60), resulting in fewer accident claims being filed with the insurance company (70), resulting in savings for the insurance company (80). The savings incuπed by the insurance company and/or the goodwill and customer loyalty obtained through use of the systems of the present invention justify the expense of obtaining and distributing the system to policyholders at no cost or at a reduced cost. Figure 2 provides a schematic representation of the money saved by insurers employing the alcohol concentration systems of the present invention. The combination of each policyholder that chooses not to drive following a positive test result (50) leads to an aggregate sum of stopped events in the policyholder population for each specific BAC level (55). For each BAC level, there is a different probability that the stopped driving event will result in the avoidance of an accident (65). Likewise, each avoided accident results in saved claim costs (75). In sum, the number of crashes stopped at each BAC level (calculated by multiplying the number of stopped driving events by the probability of accident for the given BAC) multiplied by the cash savings per claim results in the saving per insurer. Statistics for accident probabilities at particular BAC levels (See e.g., Borkenstein et al., supra) and accident numbers and rates for drunk drivers are available. The total savings can be quite large. For example, the cost for each injured crash survivor has been estimated at

$67,000, including $6,000 in health care costs and $13,000 in lost productivity (NHTSA [1994], supra). Importantly, insurers payout for alcohol-related accidents is approximately $16,000 per accident, compared to approximately $7,000 for accidents where alcohol is not a factor. In prefeπed embodiments of the present invention, the insurance company provides the alcohol concentration systems to its policyholders at no cost. The insurance company benefits from this transaction so long as the cost of obtaining (e.g., purchasing or manufacturing the alcohol concentration tests, delivery systems, packaging, and other associated costs), managing (e.g., advertising, liability, and administration), and distributing the alcohol concentration systems is less than or equal to the sum of 1) the direct cost savings of avoided claims, 2) acquired goodwill (e.g., public image and customer loyalty and satisfaction resulting in new customers and maintenance of cuπent customer base), 3) competitive advantage (e.g., lower premiums made possible by the savings increases customer base) and 4) philanthropic interest.

EXPERIMENTAL

The following examples serve to illustrate certain prefeπed embodiments and aspects of the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting the scope thereof. These examples demonstrate the use of the systems and methods of the present invention by an automobile insurance company.

Several experiments conducted during the development of the present invention demonstrated alcohol concentration test retention, effectiveness, and usage by individuals. An alcohol test distribution study was conducted, by delivering alcohol concentration tests and supporting marketing materials to 180 individuals prior to the Thanksgiving holiday. On the Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday after the holiday weekend, telephone interviews determined retention and use of the tests. Results showed that approximately 75% of individuals retained the tests and 8% used the tests. A separate study was conducted to determine driving behavior upon use of the alcohol concentration tests of the present invention. Alcohol concentration tests were given to individuals leaving a bar who planned on driving immediately thereafter. The individuals were told if their BAC level was above 0.05 and then were followed surreptitiously. Changes in their decisions to drive were observed and recorded. The study showed that 44% of impaired, would-be drivers, changed behavior and did not drive after discovering that their BAC levels were over 0.05. A third study surveyed motorists and indicated that 40% of those surveyed, who drove impaired at least once during the prior year, reported that they would use a BAC self-test when impaired, and not drive if the test indicated a positive result.

Additional studies surveyed insurance" policyholders and asked how they would perceive their insurers upon receiving BAC tests from the insurers in the mail. Each study indicated that policyholders would view their insurer more positively if the insurer distributed alcohol concentration test systems.

One embodiment of the present invention is illustrated below, showing the benefit of the systems and methods of the present invention to insurance companies and the ability of the present invention to reduce alcohol-related accidents. The example is based on the use of an alcohol concentration test that measures a BAC 0.04% and above. A BAC of 0.04% and higher was selected as the "Threshold" in this example because such a level alerts policyholders when they begin to be at a substantially increased risk of crash involvement as compared to sober individuals, even when their BAC is below the legal per se and presumptive limits. In the remainder of this example, the following assumptions are used:

TABLE 1: Insurer Characteristics

Total number of insured and total annual incurred losses were based on figures obtained from an insurance company. Average incurred loss per accident is based on a two-part calculation. First, using data from State Farm's 1995 filings with the California Insurance Commissioner's Office (Exhibit 20.E-P), the contribution of each type of claim to total incuπed loss was determined (e.g., one accident may involve payments for property damage as well as bodily injury claims). Second, the following auto insurance actuarial estimation formula was applied: Number of Accidents = (Total Number of Property Damage Liability Claims) + ((.4) x Total Number of Collision Claims)). Using this formula and the data State Farm submitted to the California Insurance Commissioner, the average incuπed loss per accident was determined. Total annual number of accidents for which losses are incuπed is calculated by dividing the total annual incuπed losses by average incuπed losses per accident. The average incuπed loss per non-alcohol related accident is from a three-part calculation. First, "The Average Incuπed Loss per Accident" was derived as described above. Second, the percentage of accidents which are alcohol related versus the percentage which are non-alcohol related was determined using data from "The Grand Rapids Study" (Borkenstein, et al., supra). This data indicated that 11.5 % of accidents are alcohol related, versus 88.5% of accidents which are non-alcohol related. Third, the relative cost of the average alcohol-related claim ("drunk driving claim") as compared with the average cost of a non-alcohol related claim was determined from insurance actuary estimates. The ratio of these two costs is 2.2026. Using these numbers and ratios, the average incuπed loss for each of non-alcohol related and alcohol related accidents was determined. The equation used to solve for "Average Incuπed Loss per Non-Alcohol Related Accident" where this quantity equals "x" is: (.885)(x) + (.115)(2.2026)(x) = 7905.

Average incuπed loss per alcohol-related accident includes both the estimated average drunk driving incurred loss (i.e., which equaled "(2.2026)(x)" as calculated above) and certain additional legal and administrative costs an insurer would save with decreased loss experience. These additional legal and administrative costs were derived from data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (Economic Cost of Motor Vehicle Crashes 1994: Tables 3 and 18. NHTSA [1996]) which indicated that the average insurer's administrative cost per accident is $378 and the average insurer's legal cost per accident is $215. These costs undoubtedly vary among insurers, but given that these figures represent average accident costs and not average drunk driving accident costs (which are likely to be substantially higher), the combined total of $593 is a conservative estimate for such costs when alcohol is involved for the vast majority of auto insurers.

TABLE 2: High Risk Occasion (HRO) and Residual Period Impacts

High risk occasions or HROs refer to periods (e.g., holiday periods) during which a disproportionately large number of drunk driving crashes occur. In some embodiments, the average HRO for holiday seasons lasts 3.8 days. The threshold is the level (i.e., at or above) where the alcohol concentration test gives a positive response. The value 0.04% is chosen as this is the level where policyholders begin to become more likely to get into a crash as compared to sober drivers. Approximately 7.1% of an insurer's policyholder population has a BAC at or above 0.04% at any given time driving during an HRO. Due tg distribution of the alcohol concentration systems of the present invention, a certain percent of policyholders will be safer at any given time during the HRO. In some embodiments of the present invention, 10% is expected. As 10% of policyholders exhibit safer behavior, 10% of drunk driving events are reduced. "Residual Period" refers to the period of days following an HRO during which the systems of the present invention continue to prevent drunk driving crashes. In some embodiments, the average Residual Period lasts 118 days and has the same number of drunk driving events as one would expect in a typical period of that duration.

The reduction in incuπed losses as a result of the systems and methods of the present invention are provided in Tables 3 and 4.

TABLE 3: Incurred Losses

^♦Studies performed by Borkenstein et al. (See, supra) showed that individuals with BAC between 0.01 to 0.03 are less likely to be involved in crashes than sober individuals.

The "total number of non-alcohol-related accidents for which losses are incurred" was derived as follows. The number of accidents for which losses are incurred for each of the listed populations is determined by first noting that the aggregate normalized relative risk ratio for the total current population coπesponds to the level of risk that resulted in the total annual number of accidents for which losses are incuπed listed in the table of assumptions in Table 1. Thus, the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed for a distinct population (e.g., the total current population excluding alcohol-related risks prevented by the systems and method of the present invention) is determined by calculating the differential between the "aggregate normalized relative risk ratio of the total cuπent population" and that of the "total cuπent population excluding alcohol-related risks prevented by the systems and methods of the present invention" and then adjusting the number of coπesponding accidents proportionally.

The "total number of alcohol-related accidents for which losses are incuπed for BAC below the threshold" is derived by subtracting the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed for "total cuπent population excluding all alcohol related risks when driver BAC is at or above threshold" from the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed for "total cuπent population excluding all alcohol-related risks."

Before accounting for the benefits from implementing the systems and methods of the present invention, the "total number of alcohol-related accidents for which losses are incuπed for BAC at or above the threshold" was derived by subtracting the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed for "total cuπent population excluding all alcohol related risks when driver BAC is at or above threshold" from the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed for "total current population."

TABLE 4: Reduction in Incurred Losses

Accounting for the benefits from implementing the systems and methods of the present invention, the "total number of alcohol-related accidents for which losses are incuπed for BAC at or above the threshold" was derived by subtracting the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed for "total current population excluding all alcohol-related risks when driver BAC is at or above threshold" from the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed for "total current population excluding alcohol- related risks prevented by the systems and methods of the present invention"

Figure 4 provides calculations of and data for the effect of the systems and methods of the present invention on risk ratios and population risk profile by BAC.

The data for "contribution to total population" is from the "Grand Rapids Study" (Borkenstein, et al, supra) which indicates the distribution of BACs for the population across times of day, days of the week, and weeks of the year. The data for "contribution to accident population" is also from the Grand Rapids Study and indicates the distribution of BACs among at-fault drivers in motor vehicle crashes.

Although the distribution of BACs in a particular insurer's population may not coπespond exactly to the distribution in the Grand Rapids Study, the Grand Rapids study data is an estimate of the accident-causing population of most major auto insurers. This is demonstrated by three sources. First, "The Grand Rapids Study" is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive analyses to date of the distribution of BACs among the accident-causing population and the population at large. Second, cuπent NHTSA estimates of the percentage of the total of motor vehicle crashes attributable to alcohol range from 7.0% to 15.3% (NHTSA Traffic Safety Facts: Alcohol. 1995. and Economic Cost of Motor Vehicle Crashes: 1994. NHTSA. 1996), a range which is highly consistent with the determination from "The Grand Rapids Study" that 10.8% of such crashes are caused by alcohol. Third, the cost savings conclusions of the present invention that are based on data from "The Grand Rapids Study" closely track similar calculations based on recent reports of insurance industry market share data published by A.M. Best and the total economic cost of motor vehicle crashes published by NHTSA (Economic Cost of Motor Vehicle Crashes: 1994. NHTSA. 1996).

Relative risk ratio is calculated as "contribution to accident population" divided by "contribution to total population," at each BAC level. Normalized relative risk ratio is calculated by setting the relative risk ratio for BAC = 0.00 to equal "1.00000" and adjusting the relative risk ratios at all other BACs proportionally.

The "calculation of normalized relative risk ratio for total cuπent population" determines an aggregate risk factor for the general population of drivers (and by assumption, for the population of a given insurer's policyholders). This risk factor coπesponds to the "normalized relative risk ratio" of drivers at each BAC level and their respective contribution to, or level of representation in, the general population. That is, this calculation generates a weighted average of all of the risk, by BAC, of the population by accounting for how risky drivers are at all BACs, including 0.00, and then weighing these risks according to their prevalence in the population. The "calculation of normalized relative risk ratio for population without alcohol-related risks at or above threshold" determines an aggregate risk factor for the general population of drivers (and by assumption, for the population of a given insurer's policyholders), but backs out the incremental risk contributed by drivers with BACs at or above the "Threshold." In essence, this factor can be seen as quantifying the risk profile of the population if all members of the population used the system and methods of the present invention and did not drive any time their BAC was at or above the "Threshold." In this calculation, all BACs above the "Threshold" are re-assigned a "normalized relative risk ratio" of 1.00000 (i.e., which coπesponds to the normalized relative risk ratio at BAC = 0.00). Otherwise, the calculation is carried about in the same manner described above.

The "calculation of normalized relative risk ratio of post testing population" determines an aggregate risk factor for the general population of drivers (and by assumption, for the population of a given insurer's policy holders), but backs out the incremental risk prevented by the systems and methods of the present invention. That is to say, at or above the "Threshold," a percentage of the population at each BAC is assumed to exhibit safe behavior and not drive impaired where they otherwise would have. This percentage of the population is made up of the individuals who either 1) use a test and obey its results; 2) use a test to better determine their limits; or 3) read anti-drunk driving materials that are provided with the systems and methods of the present invention and do not drive impaired. The percentage is re-assigned a normalized relative risk ratio of 1.00000 (i.e., which coπesponds to the normalized relative risk ratio at BAC = 0.00), as described above. The remaining portion of the population at each BAC at or above the "Threshold" retains the normalized relative risk ratio determined for that BAC and is factored according to its weight into the calculation of the aggregate normalized relative risk ratio for the post testing population.

The "contribution to HRO population" figures represent the aggregate and relative risk of the indicated population. The methodology used in calculating these aggregate normalized relative risk ratios is discussed above with modifications based on the increase in alcohol-involved crashes during HROs. The "calculation of NRR for cuπent HRO population" provides the normalized relative risk ratio (NRR) for an HRO population before accounting for the effects of the systems and methods of the present invention.

The "calculation of NRR for post testing HRO population" is calculated just as is the "calculation of NRR for cuπent HRO population," but the incremental risk prevented by the systems and methods of the present invention is backed out. Such incremental risk is backed out similarly as described above for the "calculation of normalized relative risk ratio of post testing population."

Data for use with Figure 4 representing the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed during high risk occasions are shown in Table 5.

TABLE 5: HRO Relative Risk Implications

From these results, the marginal increase in crashes due to alcohol is 21.29%. The associated marginal increase in claim payments by the insurance company is 48.70%. The impact of the system and methods of the present invention on the marginal costs of alcohol for losses incuπed during HROs is 10.87%.

Data for use with Figure 4 representing the number of accidents for which losses are incuπed during residual periods are shown in Table 6.

TABLE 6: Residual Period Relative Risk Implications

From these results, the marginal increase in crashes due to alcohol is 12.97%. The associated marginal increase in claim payments by the insurance company is 29.68%. The impact of the system and methods of the present invention on the marginal costs of alcohol for losses incuπed during residual periods is 2.47%.

With one million insured (See, Table 1), and a cost of $1.50 per concentration test delivery (e.g., supplying a sufficient number of tests to meet the needs of the user), the total charge to the insurer for the distribution of the tests would be $1,500,000. Multiple alcohol concentration tests of the present invention can be produced, packaged, and distributed for less than $1.50. At such a cost structure, the net benefit to the insurer from reduced claims (i.e., subtracting total charge to the insurer from the total reduction in incuπed losses from HRO and residual periods from Table 4) would be zero. This figure is intended only as a proxy for the true potential benefit an insurer could realize from the systems and methods of the present invention.

It should be noted that this figure does not include benefits the insurer might realize from (a) favorable product pricing modifications or increased float related to decreased loss experience, (b) increased policyholder retention, or (c) favorable public relations and enhanced goodwill. Thus, even by looking only at the reduction in claims, this example demonstrates that the systems and methods of the present invention provide a basis for insurance companies to deliver alcohol concentration tests to policyholders at no cost.

One skilled in the art will, upon reading the specification, appreciate the applicability of the methods and calculations described above to other interested secondary parties in evaluating the cost and scope of delivering products or services to individuals to reduce the risk of harm caused by or to the individual, while serving one or more interests (e.g., financial interests) of the secondary party. It will further be appreciated, upon reading the specification, that the inventive methods and calculations described above can be automated (e.g., using a computer or processor), and that the present invention contemplates the use and/or incorporation of such automated steps into the systems and methods of the present invention.

All publications and patents mentioned in the above specification are herein incorporated by reference. Various modifications and variations of the described method and system of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific prefeπed embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which, upon reading the specification, are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A system comprising: a) one or more alcohol concentration tests; b) an insurance provider in control of said one or more alcohol concentration tests; c) one or more policyholders of said insurance provider; and d) a distribution system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more policyholders.

2. The system of Claim 1, wherein said distribution system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more policyholders comprises transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more policyholders at a subsidized cost.

3. The system of Claim 1, wherein said distribution system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more policyholders comprises transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more policyholders at no cost.

4. The system of Claim 1, wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests further comprise delivery means.

5. The system of Claim 1, wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests comprise saliva-based concentration tests.

6. The system of Claim 1, wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests undergo a detectable change at and above the presence of a predetermined concentration of alcohol.

7. The system of Claim 6, wherein said detectable change comprises a color change.

8. The system of Claim 6, wherein said predetermined concentration of alcohol coπesponds to a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04%.

9. The system of Claim 1 , wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests further comprise written instructional materials.

10. The system of Claim 1, wherein said insurance provider comprises an automobile insurance provider.

11. The system of Claim 1, wherein said distribution system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more policyholders comprises a system wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests are transfeπed to said one or more policyholders before a high risk time period.

12. The system of Claim 11, wherein said high risk time period comprises a holiday period.

13. A method comprising: a) providing: i) one or more alcohol concentration tests; ii) an insurance provider in control of said one or more alcohol concentration tests; and iii) one or more policyholders of said insurance provider; and b) distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said insurance provider to said one or more policyholders.

14. The method of Claim 13, wherein said distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said insurance provider to said one or more policyholders comprises distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more policyholders at a subsidized cost.

15. The system of Claim 13, wherein said distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said insurance provider to said one or more policyholders comprises distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more policyholders at no cost.

16. The method of Claim 13, wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests further comprise delivery means.

17. The method of Claim 13, wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests comprise saliva-based concentration tests.

18. The method of Claim 13, wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests undergo a detectable change at and above the presence of a predetermined concentration of alcohol.

19. The method of Claim 18, wherein said detectable change comprises a color change.

20. The method of Claim 18, wherein said predetermined concentration of alcohol coπesponds to a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04%.

21. The method of Claim 13, wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests further comprise written instructional materials.

22. The method of Claim 13, wherein said insurance provider comprises an automobile insurance provider.

23. The method of Claim 13, wherein said distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said insurance provider to said one or more policyholders comprises distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said insurance provider to said one or more policyholders before a high risk time period.

24. The method of Claim 23, wherein said high risk time period comprises a holiday period.

25. A system comprising: a) one or more alcohol concentration tests; b) an organization in control of said one or more alcohol concentration tests; c) one or more consumers; and d) a distribution system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers.

26. The system of Claim 25, wherein said organization has a financial interest in reducing drunk driving.

27. The system of Claim 25, wherein said distribution system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers comprises a system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers at a subsidized cost.

28. The system of Claim 25, wherein said distribution system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers comprises a system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers at no cost.

29. The system of Claim 25, wherein said distribution system for transferring said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers comprises a distribution system wherein said one or more alcohol concentration tests are transfeπed to said one or more consumers before a high risk time period.

30. The system of Claim 25, wherein said organization in control of said one or more alcohol concentration tests is an insurance company.

31. A method comprising: a) providing: i) one or more alcohol concentration tests; ii) an organization in control of said one or more alcohol concentration tests; and iii) one or more consumers; and b) distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said organization in control of said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers.

32. The method of Claim 31, wherein said organization has a financial interest in reducing drunk driving.

33. The method of Claim 31, wherein said distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said organization to said one or more consumers comprises distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers at a subsidized cost.

34. The method of Claim 31, wherein said distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said organization to said one or more consumers comprises distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests to said one or more consumers at no cost.

35. The method of Claim 31, wherein said distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said organization to said one or more consumers comprises distributing said one or more alcohol concentration tests from said organization to said one or more consumers before a high risk time period.

36. The method of Claim 31, wherein said organization in control of said one or more alcohol concentration tests is an insurance company.