Any amount of alcohol in your bloodstream can affect your driving ability. The effects of alcohol vary
greatly, putting you, your passengers and other drivers at risk. Safe driving requires concentration,
making good judgements, and reacting quickly to situations. Alcohol hinders all of these skills.
01. Slow reaction time
Alcohol slows your reaction times, affecting your response to different situations.
02. Lack of coordination
Heavy drinking affects your motor skills like eye, hand and foot coordination – all essential for safe driving.
Some tell-tale signs of reduced coordination include trouble walking, swaying, and an inability to stand
upright.
03. Reduced concentration
Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your concentration. Safe driving demands your full attention,
from maintaining your lane and speed, to observing other vehicles and traffic signals.
04. Decreased vision
Alcohol consumption can impair your vision, leading to blurred sight and reduced control of eye
movement. This affects depth perception and your ability to accurately judge the distance between your
vehicle and others on the road.
05. Inhibited judgement
Your brain plays a critical role in assessing situations and making sound decisions. When driving, good
judgement is essential for anticipating potential hazards and responding appropriately, e.g. when another
vehicle suddenly cuts you off.
The dangers
of drinking
and driving
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