Jurnal Ilmu Hukum KYADIREN
Vol 8 No 2 (2027): Jurnal Ilmu Hukum Kyadiren

Intoxication Does Not Negate Culpability: Rethinking Driver Mens Rea in Fatal Traffic Accidents

Balqis Vifania (Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Indonesia)
Rajin Sitepu (Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
20 Aug 2026

Abstract

Fatal traffic accidents involving alcohol consumption raise significant questions regarding criminal liability, particularly because Indonesian law lacks an objective standard for Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) and does not consistently distinguish between culpa (negligence) and dolus eventualis (eventual intent) in determining driver culpability. This study examines the relationship between alcohol-induced impairment and criminal responsibility, identifies the normative and evidentiary problems arising from the absence of a standardized BAC threshold, and proposes a more consistent and equitable framework for determining criminal liability. The study employs a normative juridical method using statutory, conceptual, medico-legal, and case-based approaches, with an analysis of ten judicial decisions. The findings demonstrate that alcohol intoxication does not automatically preclude criminal liability. However, the absence of a standardized BAC threshold creates evidentiary uncertainty and contributes to inconsistencies in judicial decision-making. The study concludes that a more coherent framework should integrate the doctrine of actio libera in causa, mens rea analysis, medico-forensic evidence, and sentencing guidelines to strengthen legal certainty, promote consistency in judicial reasoning, and ensure effective protection of victims.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

kyadiren

Publisher

Subject

Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice

Description

Jurnal Hukum Kyadiren menerima manuskrip dengan topik-topik terkait masalah hukum di indonesia dan mancanegara secara umum. Artikel-artikel yang dikirim mencakup permasalahan seputar hukum perdata (Civil Law), hukum pidana(Criminal Law), hukum acara perdata (Civil Procedural Law), Hukum acara pidana ...