Seven of nine time–series studies found positive associations
between changes in outlet density and alcohol
consumption and related harms, particularly interpersonal
violence. However, two studies assessing the relationship
between alcohol outlet density and motorvehicle
crashes in small California cities during two
different time periods20,30 had inconsistent findings for
which no clear explanation was apparent. The studies
reviewed also suggested that the association between
outlet density and interpersonal violence may at least
partially be due to social aggregation in and around
alcohol outlets, and that the density of outlets in a given
locale can also influence the probability of assaults
involving residents of neighboring communities.