The dangers of drinking and driving are well-documented, but this doesn’t stop everyone from consuming alcohol before getting behind the wheel.
Even one drink can impact a person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Here are some of the most common effects of alcohol on drivers:
- Judgment: A drunk driver isn’t in a position to exercise good judgment, which increases the risk of them causing an accident. For example, someone who is under the influence may not have the ability to judge the speed of another vehicle and the impact it’ll have on them.
- Vision: Alcohol impacts vision in many ways, such as by making it blurry and slowing your ability to focus. Since vision is the most important sense when driving, this is a major concern.
- Reaction time: A slow reaction time is troublesome when driving. For example, alcohol makes it difficult to react to a sudden move by another driver.
Even if you’re sober, another driver may be under the influence of alcohol. This person could cause an accident that results in injuries and property damage.
If you’re injured in a drunk driving accident, do the following:
- Move to safety and administer first aid
- Call 911 to request help
- Stay inside your vehicle, if possible
- Accept treatment and transportation from the responding paramedics
- Receive a professional diagnosis and treatment at a local hospital
Once you understand your injuries and have a treatment plan in place, learn more about the cause of the accident and the steps you can take to hold the drunk driver responsible for their actions. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills and related damages.
