Drunk driving is a big problem that can hurt everyone on the road. Many lives are changed forever because of accidents caused by driving under the influence. The penalties for drunk driving can be tough, including high fines, losing your license, and even jail time. But you can help prevent this! By understanding the risks and consequences of drunk driving, you can make better choices to keep yourself and others safe. So let’s take a more detailed look at drunk driving.
What is Drunk Driving?
Drunk driving, also known as driving under the influence (DUI), involves operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of at least 0.08%. Alcohol-impaired driving is a serious safety and public health issue worldwide. You start to lose good judgment and coordination after your first sip of alcohol.
According to drunk driving statistics, people aged 21 to 25 are the most likely to drive drunk. Alcohol-related accidents cost taxpayers $100 billion.
Types of Drugs
Drunk driving is the act of driving under the influence of alcohol, which is involved in 30% of all traffic fatalities. Drug-impaired driving is divided into categories.
- Among seriously injured drivers, 25.8% tested positive for cannabinoids.
- Another 13.6% had stimulants
- While 24.6% had drugs other than alcohol or cannabis.
- Recreational drugs like marijuana or hashish can be charged and convicted of impaired driving in some jurisdictions.
In Canada, police have trained officers who can spot drug impairment. They do this by checking physical signs and testing coordination.
- Prescription medicines like opioids and benzodiazepines can make you very sleepy and feel sick.
In the last ten years, motor vehicle crashes have increased. Many believe that using impairing prescription drugs is a big reason for this. Workers should tell their employer when they are prescribed these drugs. This helps reduce the risk of crashes while at work.
Types of Tests Performed to Check Drunk Drivers
There are several types of tests performed to check whether the driver is intoxicated with drugs or not like:
Sobriety Tests
Police officers use field sobriety tests to check if someone who might be driving poorly is drunk or on drugs.
The Drug Evaluation and Classification Program
The Drug Evaluation and Classification program is designed to detect drug-impaired drivers and classify their drug levels post-arrest. It is used in all 50 states in the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom, and it has been tested and proven to work. It uses a 12-step process to help a trained Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) find out what drugs may be affecting someone. The 12 steps are:
- Breath Alcohol Test
- Interview with the arresting officer (who notices slurred speech, alcohol on breath, etc.)
- A preliminary evaluation
- Evaluation of the eyes
- Psychomotor tests
- Vital Signs
- Examinations conducted in a dark room
- Muscle tone
- Injection places (to inject heroin or other narcotics)
- Interrogation of Suspect
- Opinion of the evaluator
- Toxicological Examination
Testing For Cannabis
Testing for cannabis is also important, as U.S. states prohibit driving under the influence of drugs, including marijuana. Companies are developing roadside THC breathalyzers to help identify drivers impaired by marijuana use. Some nations use saliva swabs for testing, but questions remain about the reliability of saliva testing.
The Effects of Blood Alcohol Concentration
Here are some effects of blood alcohol concentration that are given below in the table:
| Concentrations | Effects |
| 0.2% | Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in g/dL can cause loss of judgment, relaxation, body warmth, altered mood, decline in visual functions, and difficulty performing two tasks simultaneously. |
| 0.5% | Exaggerated behavior, loss of small-muscle control, impaired judgment, lowered alertness, inhibition release, reduced coordination, difficulty steering, and reduced response to emergency driving situations. |
| 0.8% | Muscle coordination, judgment, self-control, reasoning, and memory are impaired, along with concentration, short-term memory loss, speed control, reduced information processing capability, and impaired perception. |
| 0.10% | Muscle coordination, judgment, self-control, reasoning, and memory are impaired, along with concentration, short-term memory loss, speed control, reduced information processing capability, and impaired perception. |
| 0.15% | Reduced muscle control, vomiting, balance loss, and significant impairment in vehicle control, attention to driving tasks, and visual and auditory information processing may occur. |
Consequences of Drunk Driving
DUI (Driving under the influence) can lead to severe physical and emotional consequences, including paralysis, brain damage, and death. The emotional burden can be even more severe. Impaired or drunk driving can result in severe penalties, including license revocation, fines, and jail time. First-time offenses can cost up to $10,000 as drunk driving fines and legal fees.
Many states require offenders to install ignition interlock devices, which are breath test devices connected to a vehicle’s ignition. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration supports the expansion of ignition interlocks as a proven technology to prevent drunk drivers from driving. Common drunk driving punishments include:
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Imprisonment
- Vehicle impoundment
- Vehicle license plate seizure
- Ignition interlock device (IID) limits
- Evaluations for alcohol misuse.
- Court-ordered treatment
- Monitored sobriety
How to Be a Responsible Driver
To be a responsible driver and avoid driving drunk:
- Never drive after drinking alcohol or using drugs. Plan for a safe ride home or choose a designated driver.
- Use a taxi, rideshare, or public transport if you’ve been drinking.
- Stay focused on driving and avoid distractions like texting.
- Follow the speed limit and all traffic rules.
- Always wear your seatbelt and make sure passengers do too.
- Keep a safe distance from other cars to avoid accidents.
- Take care of your car to keep it safe to drive.
- Be patient and polite with other drivers.
- If you feel tired, take a break before driving.
- Plan for events with alcohol and arrange a sober ride home.
Conclusion
To sum it up, drunk driving is a danger that can hurt many people. It’s important to know the risks and consequences of drinking and driving. Always think carefully before driving after drinking. At GClass Drivers School, we focus on teaching safe driving habits to help you make better choices on the road. Contact us today and take a step toward being a safer driver. Together, we can help make our roads safer for everyone!
FAQs
What effect does drinking alcohol have on a driver?
Drinking alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, reaction time, and vision, increasing the risk of accidents.
Which is the most common drug used in impaired driving?
The most common drug used in impaired driving is alcohol.
Why should I not drink and drive?
You should not drink and drive because it increases the risk of accidents and can lead to legal consequences.
Is a 1.5 blood alcohol level high?
Yes, a BAC of 1.5% is very high and indicates severe impairment.
How to convince someone not to drink and drive?
Share facts about drunk driving, express concern for their safety, offer alternatives like a designated driver, and share personal stories.
What are 6 factors that affect blood alcohol concentration?
- Body weight
- Gender
- Rate of consumption
- Food intake
- Alcohol content
- Metabolism
How does alcohol affect the brain?
Alcohol alters neurotransmitter function, impairing cognitive functions, decision-making, and coordination. Long-term use can affect memory and emotional regulation.
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