In the next couple of months, there will be plenty of holiday celebrating going in. This means more people will be drinking more often and will then be getting behind the wheel of a car. This is bad news for all of us.
Michigan drunk driving accident statistics show that drivers with more than the legal limit of alcohol in their systems are 7 times more likely to be in a fatal crash and 6 to 17 times more likely to be killed. If you’re ready to protect your friends and family from a terrible tragedy, here are some common excuses you’ll encounter when you ask someone if they’re OK to drive:
- “I’ve only had a couple of drinks, I feel fine.” Did you know alcohol dulls judgement before it affects coordination or vision? The first ability you lose is the one that would tell you you’re not OK to drive. And alcohol can make someone feel more confident and conclude that they’re in better shape than they truly are.
- “I know my limit.” So many factors impact what anyone’s limit really is (hydration, sleep, medication, etc.). Someone’s “safe” amount one night might not be on another night. While “one drink per hour” might sometimes keep larger men under 0.08 BAC (blood alcohol content), it doesn’t ensure safety for everyone — and impairment starts earlier anyway.
- “I ate a big meal, so I’ll be fine.” It’s true that food slows the absorption of alcohol in the bloodstream, but it does not prevent it. Also, even if your BAC is under the legal limit, you can still be charged if your driving is impaired and the officer has evidence you are “visibly impaired” (slower reaction times, poor coordination, weaving, etc.).
The ironic part to this whole thing is that the person you’re asking if they’re OK to drive isn’t really qualified to answer the question. The truth is, no one is immune to the effects of alcohol, and no celebration is worth a life. This holiday season, make the choice that keeps everyone safe — plan ahead, call a ride, or hand over your keys before you take that first sip. Make sure every friend and family member gets home safely!
