The effectiveness of alcohol control policies on alcohol-related traffic fatalities in the United States

► Nine traffic policies were analyzed to determine the efficacy of the alcohol-related fatality prevention. ► Panel GLS model were employed holding regional effects and state-specific time effects constant. ► Alcohol-related traffic deaths per total traffic deaths better reflects the impact of policies on deterring drunk driving than alcohol-related traffic deaths per population. ► Zero tolerance laws and increased beer taxes are the most effective policies in reducing alcohol-related fatalities in all regions.