Drunk driving is dangerous. It can cause you to make a slew of bad decisions that can ruin your life and hurt others.
Here is a guide to drinking and driving for all drivers.
What is a DUI?
Driving under the influence is a crime that the state can charge you for. Operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content over .08% can lead to a DUI, DWI, or OWI charge. However, even consuming a small amount of alcohol and driving is dangerous. You can still hurt yourself or others even if you are not visibly intoxicated. That is why drinking and driving are illegal.
Is it dangerous?
Having alcohol in your bloodstream reduces your ability to drive safely. The effects of alcohol can lead to many different dangerous situations. To drive safely, you need to be able to:
- Concentrate
- Make judgment calls
- React quickly
Alcohol impacts these abilities, which can put you and others in danger.
Is it a problem?
Almost 30 people die every day in the United States due to crashes caused by drunk drivers. In 2020, that totaled more than 11,000 deaths per year. That is almost one-third of all vehicular fatalities. In addition, the police arrest over one million drivers yearly on DUI charges.
Does a low BAC level affect you?
You will receive a DUI charge at .08% BAC. However, much lower BAC levels can impact your senses. That is why it is never safe to drink and drive. Doing so can put yourself and others at risk.
Learning the facts about drinking and driving should encourage you to avoid this situation. In addition, if you are fighting an alcohol addiction, you should get help to ensure you do not end up with drunk driving charges.