Driving While Intoxicated
How dangerous is driving under the influence?
Driving under the influence is quite possibly one of the most dangerous problems we have on our roadways today. Approximately 40% of all highway fatalities are caused by somebody driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
What is a "BAC"?
When you talk about people driving under the influence and you hear the term BAC, quite simply it means blood alcohol content.
What is the legal BAC?
The legal BAC for operating a motor vehicle is 8%. In fact all fifty states have passed the 8% legislation as of August 25th.
How many drinks can I have before my driving is impaired?
Reaching 0.8% BAC can vary from person to person, but remember, being drunk and being impaired are two different things. Some people can be impaired after just one drink.
Will drinking coffee reverse the effects of alcohol?
Drinking coffee will not reverse the effects of alcohol. In fact, drinking coffee does not reduce the effects of alcohol or your blood alcohol content. The only thing coffee does is make you a wide-awake drunk. The only thing that will reduce the effects of alcohol is the passing of time, and how much time do you need? About an hour to an hour and a half per drink.
How can I tell if another driver is under the influence?
You can spot drunk drivers on the road if they have a problem maintaining proper lane position. Speed and braking problems would be other indications of drunk drivers. And another indicator of a drunk driver is a wrong way driver on the freeway. Now however, if you see hundreds of wrong way drivers on the freeway, you could be the drunk driver.
What should I do if I encounter a drunk driver on the road?
If you encounter an impaired driver such as a drunk on the road, first of all, you want to stay alert, because with their erratic movements you don't know what they're likely to do. Secondly, you want to slow down and maintain a safe distance. Finally, you want to get away from that drunk driver as quickly as possible.
