You don’t have to be addicted to alcohol to become involved in drunk driving. While many simply think driving under the influence is a wrong decision, it is much more than that. Drunk driving is a criminal offense that can lead to fines, jail time, damage to personal property, and potentially fatal consequences for yourself and others. This problem is more significant than most people realize, with 29 people dying every day in the United States in motor vehicle crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. However, preventative measures can help prevent this terrible loss of life and help those struggling get the help they need before getting behind the wheel of a car. At NorthStar Transitions, we want to help prevent drunk driving and help those struggling with alcohol addiction find the healing they need. By learning more about drunk driving, it is our hope that we can prevent it in the future, both in Colorado and across the country. Show What It Means to Be Impaired Behind the WheelKnowing the legal definitions of driving while impaired is vital to ensure you do not get into legal trouble and help you monitor your alcohol consumption for your personal safety and the safety of others. It should be noted that driving while impaired not only applies to alcohol but also applies to driving while being under the influence of other drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, etc. General DefinitionAccording to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, driving while under the influence is defined as “the offense of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated by drugs or especially alcohol.” This definition is general, as different states have various laws regarding what is considered o be “impaired driving” or “driving under the influence.” However, it should be noted that the majority of states classify a 0.08 blood alcohol content (BAC) as driving under the influence. Under Colorado LawIn the state of Colorado, it is illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In the state, a BAC of over 0.05 but less than 0.08 shows that there is a “permissible inference that the defendant’s ability to operate a vehicle was impaired by the consumption of alcohol.” However, if your BAC exceeds 0.08, it is classified as driving while under the influence. This law is also applicable to drugs such as marijuana. If a blood test shows that there are five nanograms or more of delta-9 THC per milliliter in a person’s blood, that shows they were driving under the influence of one or more drugs. Higher penalties are given if a test shows the person’s BAC level is 0.15 or more. Consequences of Drunk DrivingNumerous consequences can accompany the decision to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Knowing what these
potential consequences are can deter you and others from driving while using drugs or alcohol. Driving under the influence can result in significant financial costs, including legal expenses, medical costs, insurance bills, and property damage. Legal trouble can also ensue, which can result in the person being fined, losing their license, or even being arrested. However, the most significant and tragic consequence of drunk driving is the bodily harm that can be caused. When individuals drive while impaired, they can crash into other objects, including other cars filled with innocent passengers. This can result in serious injuries or even death regarding your own well-being. It can also cause danger to the other individuals involved in the accident. Loss of life is unnecessary and can be avoided thanks to preventative measures and the spreading of awareness. How to Prevent Drunk DrivingThere are multiple ways to prevent drunk driving and the dangerous consequences that come with it. Next time you find yourself in a sticky situation, consider the tips below:
Remember, drunk driving is a choice with easily avoidable consequences. Drinking and driving is an unfortunately common tragedy that occurs in the United States every day. The CDC reports that 29 people die every day from accidents involving a drunk driver. These consequences are preventable, and NorthStar Transitions hopes to reduce the numbers by raising awareness and offering support to those struggling with alcohol abuse and addiction. NorthStar provides state-of-the-art programs with an expert staff and individualized care to give you the support you need to get sober. Our variety of evidence-based treatment modalities outside the Denver Metro area give individuals hope and healing while surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. Through our residential drug and alcohol treatment services, you can be sure to find healing with NorthStar. You can contact us today through our website or by calling us at (303) 558-6400. Start your recovery journey today at NorthStar Transitions and live the life you have always wanted. What are the effects of driving while drunk?Drinking and driving increases the risk of accidents due to impaired motor skills, less concentration, slow reaction times, decreased vision, and poor judgment. These side effects put the driver, potential passengers, other vehicles, and pedestrians at risk. Accidents involving drunk drivers are often fatal.
What causes drunk driving accidents?Drunk drivers can become drowsy or fall asleep at the wheel, and veer into oncoming traffic in a head-on collision. In addition, alcohol reduces a person's vision, ability to comprehend traffic signs and signals, and comprehension of the actions of other drivers, making this type of wreck a likely outcome.
What are 5 dangers of drinking and driving?Major dangers of drinking and driving include; slow reaction time, lack of coordination, less concentration, inadequate judgement and impaired vision. These can all lead to serious injuries or death when getting behind the wheel drunk.
What are 6 effects alcohol has on driving?Six Ways Alcohol Consumption Impacts Safe Driving. Judgment.. Concentration.. Comprehension.. Coordination.. Vision and hearing.. Reaction time.. |
