If you have alcohol in your system, you should never get behind the wheel. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 28 people die everyday from drunk driving which is one death every 51 minutes. It is important to never get behind the wheel after drinking to avoid endangering yourself and the lives around you as well as figuring out a backup plan if you are too intoxicated to drive.
What is a DUI?
DUI stands for “Driving Under the Influence.” This is when someone is drunk or impaired to drive. It means operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level over the legal state limit.
What is blood alcohol concentration percentage?
A measurement of how much alcohol is in your system. It involves using breathalyzers and/or blood tests for your BAC. Each state criminal BAC is at least .08% but alcohol can still affect you before you reach that point.
What is bad about driving while intoxicated?
Being intoxicated behind the wheel can affect how you respond to certain situations. If your car breaks down suddenly or someone crosses the street, it can take longer for your brain to process what is going on and to stop any accidents from occurring. Being intoxicated can also affect your motor skills where it can be difficult to get in the car and find the ignition. Your concentration is reduced as well like not being able to stay in your lane, speeding, paying attention to other cars and traffic lights. Your judgment is impaired that makes it hard to stay alert and aware of driving conditions. It is always important to be able to foresee potential problems and be able to make good decisions to prevent a tragedy from happening.
When is it safe to have a drink before driving?
Never. You should never get behind the wheel after drinking. If you have been drinking, you need to wait 45 minutes each drink for your alcohol level to drop to zero.
What safety measures should I take if I am too intoxicated to drive?
Before drinking, ask a friend to be a designated driver to give you a ride back home so that you do not have to drink. If you cannot find anyone to drive you home, make sure that you have money on you to call a taxi or an Uber to drive you home safely.
Located in downtown Midland, The Springboard Center’s mission is to offer programs and services to treat alcohol and drug addiction treatment using an evidence based curriculum, 12 step programs, diet, nutrition, exercise, emotional, mental and spiritual development for a long recovery. For more information, please call us at 432-620-0255 as we are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
