No matter who you are, driving under the influence is never okay. Whether it be taking drugs, drinking alcohol or even prescription medications, it can be extremely dangerous and cause serious injury or even death. This is why it’s so important for drivers to understand the risks associated with driving while impaired.
Driving while impaired is a hugely dangerous thing to do and not only puts the driver in danger but also any passengers and other drivers. Taking drugs or drinking alcohol changes the way you respond to different stimuli, making it hard to judge distances accurately, navigate roads, respond to hazards as they appear and even stay alert.
The effects of speeding, reckless driving, not using your seatbelt properly and not being in full control of your mouth and eyes can all be worse if you are also under the influence. All of these can lead to fatal consequences and so it is important to make the right decision and not drive while impaired.
One of the most dangerous effects of driving while impaired is the effect it has on your focus. Drugs and alcohol affect your focus and ability to concentrate on the road and make decisions. This can lead to more errors and make it more likely you will miss a road sign, question or hazard.
Drinking or taking drugs also reduces your ability to react quickly and appropriately in emergency situations. This can lead to you not taking the necessary steps to avoid a collision and lead to serious accidents.
By driving while impaired you are putting yourself as well as others in danger. You are also putting yourself in a position to face severe punishments. The punishments associated with driving while impaired vary depending on the severity of the impaired driving offence but they can be severe and lead to large fines, imprisonment and license suspension.
It is important to never get behind the wheel when you are under the influence, you should arrange for a designated driver to take you home or take a taxi. Talking about when it is safe to drive can help make sure your journeys are always safe.
If you have been drinking or have taken drugs, it is important to wait for a certain time before getting behind the wheel so you can be sure you are sober when driving. Don’t rely on strong coffee to make you sober as it won’t help in the process and can give you a false sense of security.
It is extremely important to not take drugs or drink when you are driving, no matter the circumstance. If you are feeling the effects of the alcohol or drugs in your system, it is not safe to drive. You should always plan ahead, know when you can safely drive and arrange an alternative if you are unable to yourself.
It is important to educate yourself on the dangers of driving while impaired, no matter your history or circumstance. Whether it be taking drugs or drinking, driving while impaired is life-threatening and can cause serious injury or even death.