+1-949-283-0863It’s no secret that drinking and driving is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening decision. Every year, thousands of people experience injury or death as the result of an alcohol-related accident. Unfortunately, many people still view getting behind the wheel after drinking as socially acceptable, even though this mindset is more than a little outdated.
The reality is that alcohol consumption has the power to alter someone’s decision-making skills, leading them to believe they are capable of what they are not—such as driving. This issue isn’t just about social responsibility; it’s also about taking steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from the risks of drinking and driving. In this blog, we raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving and how to prevent it.
The Dangers of Drinking and Driving
Before we can deliver suitable solutions, let’s take a closer look at the distinct dangers associated with drinking and driving. While most of these dangers are common sense, raising awareness about them can help change someone’s mind about executing this life-changing decision. All risks, from altered perception to a lack of control, are present when consuming alcohol and making choices. Delve into the various dangers below.
Altered Perception and Reaction Times
Alcohol alters your perception, which makes it difficult to accurately judge speed or distance. It also slows down reaction time, making it harder to respond quickly when you’re behind the wheel. This can be especially dangerous if you drive at high speeds on a highway, where split-second decisions are necessary.
Additionally, you cannot predict the actions of other drivers. Usually, our reactions and acquired reflexes equip us with the most appropriate responses to maintain a safe driving environment for everyone on the road. When your perception and reactions are slowed or inhibited from alcohol, you cannot appropriately react to your surroundings.
Lack of Emotional Control
Alcohol also impairs your judgment and hampers your emotional control, which can result in aggressive driving or taking unnecessary risks. Even if nothing bad happens, you’ll still be at risk of getting a ticket or having an accident.
If a cop does pull you over while you’re driving under the influence, your emotional capacity to handle this high-stress situation is also impaired. This will likely lead the officer to draw conclusions, initiate a roadside test, or breathalyze you. Regardless of the officer’s chosen method of consequences, your emotional state may not sway in your favor after consuming alcohol.
Ignoring Traffic Laws
When you’re not in control of your emotions and unable to accurately gauge driving situations, you’re more likely to ignore traffic laws. This can include things like ignoring speed limits, blowing through stop signs, switching lanes unintentionally, or simply not paying attention to the road. This can all lead to dangerous situations, accidents, and costly fines.
How To Prevent Drinking and Driving
Now that we’ve closely explored the dangers of drinking and driving, let’s look at how you can prevent it from happening in your life or to someone you know. Remember—awareness is key, and knowing about reliable prevention measures can change or save a life.
Designate a Driver
When going out with friends, designate a driver who remains sober throughout the night and can get everyone home safely. Make sure your designated driver is willing to do and capable of the task, and ensure they know about their responsibilities on the night of the event. These efforts can ensure someone is ready at all times and that your crew is safe with someone you trust. The primary goal is to arrive back home safely with smiles on your faces.
Take Public Transportation
If you’re going out alone or if no friends want to feel excluded from the festivities by remaining sober, another good option is to take public transportation or a taxi. This eliminates the need to drive, so there’s no risk of getting behind the wheel after having too much to drink. Understandably, many people have fears and qualms about taking a form of public transportation, and not everyone has the mental capacity to participate in partnering with strangers when inebriated. Still, public transportation or taxi services are safe and reliable options to explore.
Hire a Personal Driver
If you’re looking for an even safer and more convenient way to get around while drinking, you can hire a personal driver service. Hiring a chauffeur for the night allows you to enjoy the comfort and convenience of your personal vehicle with the trust and reliability of a professional service provider. With this option, you don’t have to worry about finding a designated driver or dealing with traffic after having a few drinks. Plus, your personal driver will take care of all the details, so you can just relax and enjoy your night out.
The Wrap Up
Whether via a designated driver, public transportation, or a personal driving service, there are plenty of ways to get around while drinking without putting yourself or others at risk. Taking the time to plan ahead is always better than risking an accident or getting a ticket for driving under the influence. By doing so, you can ensure that you and everyone else get home safely and that the night is as enjoyable as possible. Don’t take your chances—plan ahead.
A Note From Your Car Our Driver
It’s time to start taking action against drinking and driving. The risks are simply too high to ignore, and plenty of alternatives are available if you’re willing to look for them. Your Car Our Driver offers reliable, reputable, and trustworthy personal driving services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and Riverside areas. Our drivers are fully licensed and insured and dedicated to your safety and convenience.
Requesting one of our drivers for a night out can keep you safe and potentially save the life of someone you may not know. Many fail to remember that drinking and driving isn’t just a personal risk; it’s a public safety risk. You put everyone in harm’s way when you make this life-threatening decision, so choose Your Car Our Driver to be responsible and prevent harm.
If we all work together to put an end to drinking and driving, we can make a huge difference in our communities. Request your driver today for your next night out to make it extra great—and safe.
