Driving is a responsibility that demands full focus and control. Alcohol impairs these critical abilities, making drunk driving one of the leading causes of car accidents. Understanding the effects of alcohol on driving and learning ways to protect yourself from impaired drivers can save lives.
How Alcohol Affects Driving
As Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) increases, the ability to operate a vehicle deteriorates. Here’s how different BAC levels impact driving:
- 0.02 BAC: Reduced visual functions and multitasking ability, such as handling simple tasks like listening to the radio while driving.
- 0.05 BAC: Difficulty steering, reacting to road changes, and tracking moving objects, including other vehicles and pedestrians.
- 0.08 BAC: Impaired memory, concentration, and speed control—this is the legal intoxication limit in many states.
- 0.10 BAC: Challenges staying in the correct lane and delayed braking reactions increase the risk of collisions.
- 0.15 BAC: Severe impairment in processing visual and auditory information, combined with major difficulties in controlling the vehicle’s direction.
Protecting Yourself Against Drunk Drivers
While you cannot control other drivers, taking proactive measures can minimize your risk:
- Maintain a Safe Distance
Always keep a safe following distance, particularly at night when impaired driving incidents rise. - Report Erratic Driving
If you see a vehicle swerving or driving unpredictably, call the police to report the situation. - Exercise Caution at Intersections
Even with a green light, check for oncoming traffic to avoid accidents caused by drunk drivers who ignore signals. - Avoid Peak Drinking Hours
Limit your driving during late weekend nights or holidays when drunk driving incidents are more common. - Always Wear Your Seatbelt
While a seatbelt won’t prevent accidents, it significantly reduces the risk of severe injuries in crashes.
This article is provided as a public service by Cordisco & Saile. For more information, visit cordiscosaile.com.
