Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol: Consequences and Effects

Drinking and driving is likely to lead to devastating and far-reaching impacts for you, your family, and anyone who happens to be on the road with you.

Unfortunately, despite public awareness campaigns, warnings, and stiff penalties for violations, people will still get behind the wheel of their vehicles while intoxicated.

The consequences of driving under the influence may include fines, demerit points, loss of license, and jail time. The best way to avoid this is to understand the serious consequences of drinking and driving, as well as how you can keep yourself out of circumstances of violating the law.

The Effects of alcohol on driving

Driving involves focus, attention to detail, and coordination. For safe driving on the roads, the driver is expected to consider many unknown factors that need a quick response and split-second decisions. Alcohol in the body, when it exceeds a certain level, is known to impact this decision-making capacity that is possible when there is no influence of alcohol in the system.

The effects of alcohol that could lead to dangerous consequences include:

• A false sense of security and control
• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased risk-taking
• Difficulty maintaining a constant speed
• Slower reaction times
• Poor coordination
• Sudden movements
• Drowsiness

Legal Consequences of Drinking and Driving:

Taking the example of Ontario, Canada, here are some answered by https://torontodui.com/ to frequently asked questions:

Do you go to jail for drunk driving?

First-time offenders usually receive only a fine. However, repeat offenders can receive jail time.

How much jail time do you get for drinking and driving?

In Ontario, second-time offenders can receive 30 days in jail, while third-time offenders can receive 120 days in prison for drinking and driving.

What is the limit for drunk driving?

Ontario drivers are considered over the allowed limit if they exceed 80 mg of alcohol in 100 mL of blood. This makes them liable to get a drunk driving charge.

What happens the first time someone gets a DUI?

A first-time DUI offense in Ontario carries a fine of up to $1,000 and may cause you to lose your license for up to 30 days.

Can I drink a pint and drive?

Generally, people can drink one pint of beer and not go over the 80 limit. However, it is important to know that those who weigh less than normal may still go over 80 after one pint.

What happens if you get caught drunk driving?

The arresting officer can bring you to the police station to undergo a pair of breathalyzer tests. If you test positive, you will face charges from there.

It is important to know that just because a person can function well after drinking doesn’t mean that they are not at risk of showing high levels of alcohol in their system when tested.