Making it home safely after a drink or two does not justify the risks and dangers of drunk driving. When putting the keys into the ignition and driving away following some drinks, people’s lives are not just at risk but so are those of others on the road. Learn more about the dangers of drunk driving.
The Risks
Alcohol impacts a person’s judgment, depth perception and vital motor skills which are generally used to drive safely. Getting into an accident could result in the loss of life that is devastating for many people involved. According to 2009 drunk driving statistics, nearly 11,000 traffic fatalities in alcohol-impairment-driving crashes. If drinking and driving is more important than any legal or life issues a person can experience, it may seem worthwhile. However, operation of a motor vehicle while sober may be difficult such as adding alcohol or other intoxicants while putting a person’s life and those of others at risk.
Legal Repercussions
When legal repercussions kick in, it can be devastating for a person immediately and in the future. A blood alcohol test can be conducted on the roadside and in most states the limit for BAC is .10%. If the person fails to meet the standard, the result could land a person in jail on charges of a DUI or DWI. Legal repercussions are soon to follow. All 50 states have taken serious action when it comes to individuals that drive under the influence or while intoxicated. There is zero tolerance as all violators will be arrested and charged accordingly.
DUI
A DUI, driving under the influence, is the act of operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level, BAC, over the legal state limit. If arrested and charged, the state can prosecute accordingly. First offense typically resulting in loss of license for 1 year can also include federally mandated outpatient alcohol abuse program and probation. Multiple DUI’s in the past will most likely be prosecuted to the full extent of the law but varies state by state.
DWI
A DWI, driving while intoxicated, is the act of operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level, BAC, over the legal state limit. If suspected of DWI, a field sobriety test will be required including breathalyzer or blood test. Legal repercussions can include time in jail, federally mandated alcohol treatment programs and loss of drivers license for an amount of time.
Make the Choice
Keeping the roadways safe is the best option along with keeping loved ones safe from dangers and risks that are unnecessary. Every person who makes a decision to drink or not drink is choosing to take the fate of his or her own hands behind the wheel and those of anyone who is on the road. Making the choice to not drink and drive is always the better choice, given the risks involved.
The Villa can provide support and information for an individual seeking help with alcohol or drug addiction. Call us to find out more information about our resources for helping get individuals to a point of recovery.
