How Drinking Impacts Your Ability to Drive​​​​​​​

With St. Patrick's Day right around the corner, there will likely be a number of people celebrating the holiday this weekend. In true Irish form, these celebrations are typically centered around drinking alcohol. With that in mind, many people may think they are safe to drive after partaking in alcohol, but they really should not.

Drinking and driving is illegal and you may face hefty penalties if you are caught driving under the influence. Our Lake of the Ozarks attorney knows this is a popular holiday for drinking but you should always have plans made to get home safely. Whether it's staying at your location longer, calling a cab or ride-sharing company, or designating a driver for the night, it's important to think ahead when you are out drinking.

Delayed Reaction Time

Alcohol can inhibit the time it takes for you to react to a situation. If you are operating a vehicle, you may not have the same reaction time as you would sober. If someone in front of you stops abruptly, you may not be able to get your vehicle stopped in time. If a deer jumps out in the road, you will likely not be able to react in a timely manner to avoid the animal. Swerving may be your instinct and this can lead to overcorrecting or travel off the road.

Lack of Coordination

Your coordination may be impaired when driving under the influence of alcohol. It may make it difficult to navigate the roadway safely. Staying between the lines can be difficult for someone who has been drinking. Coordination is a vital part of safely operating a vehicle.

Impaired Judgement

When drinking, your judgment may be impaired. This is not a good attribute of a driver. Your judgment of traffic and other situations on the roadway may be hindered if you have alcohol in your system. It's best to have a ride home lined up before you even head out for the St. Patrick's Day festivities.

Blurred Vision

Road lights, signs, and other car's headlights can all blur together if you have been drinking. Many times a drunk driver will subconsciously drive toward a light that catches their eye. This can lead to a very dangerous situation on the road, especially with oncoming traffic.

Legal Consequences of Drinking and Driving:

If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you may be facing one or more of the below consequence:

• Suspension of license
• Hefty legal fees
• Higher insurance rates
• Community service
• Jail time

Now that you have a better understanding of the physical limitations drinking alcohol can have on you and the legal consequences you may face if you get pulled over for drinking and driving, you can plan ahead for your weekend activities. Our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks wishes you a happy and safe St. Patrick's Day!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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