Substance use histories were obtained from 103 persons (16 to 63 years of age) with recent spinal cord injuries (SCI). Lifetime exposure to and current use of substances with abuse potential were substantially greater in this sample compared to a like-age national sample. Exposure to and recent use of substances with abuse potential was considerably greater for persons who reported being intoxicated at injury. These results suggest that a significant number of persons with recent SCI have extensive drug use histories and may be at risk for poor rehabilitation outcome. Timely assessment and intervention of substance abuse problems could help enhance psychosocial and vocational outcomes. (Author/DB)