Driving under the influence of alcohol can be considered a criminal act. In addition to endangering yourself, this behavior can also endanger the lives of other road users. Why is that? Check out the full review below.
Quite a lot of people are still careless and think that driving is still safe as long as they are not drunk. In fact, regardless of the level, alcohol can make the brain not function optimally and increase the risk of accidents.
Negative Effects While Driving
While driving, the human brain must quickly respond to various things, such as changes in traffic lights, horn sounds, uneven roads, or pedestrians and other vehicles that may pass suddenly.
If you drive a vehicle after consuming alcohol, there are several negative effects that may occur, including:
Decreased concentration
The effects of alcohol can occur is decreased concentration and level of alertness when driving a vehicle. Not only that, but consuming alcohol can also make you sleepy faster. These things will certainly increase the risk of traffic accidents.
Decreased visual acuity
Visual acuity is an important element when driving. When you drive a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, your visual ability can decrease, both in terms of visibility and considering the speed and movement of other vehicles.
Other effects that may occur are blurred vision, and the inability to distinguish the color of traffic signs and road markings.
Decreased reflexes and memory
Alcohol can reduce the brain’s ability to focus and make quick decisions. Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol often become less alert and unaware of how fast their vehicle or other vehicles are going.
Not only that, driving after consuming alcohol can also make someone forget whether they have used safety equipment, such as a seat belt or helmet. This will increase the risk of injury and death in the event of an accident.
Don’t Force Yourself to Drive
The bad effects of driving while under the influence of alcohol are indeed fatal. In fact, many people have died in accidents due to forcing themselves to drive after drinking alcohol. Many also have to deal with the law because they make other people become victims.
Therefore, if you are forced to travel after consuming alcohol, here are some tips you can follow, namely:
- Wait until the effects of alcohol have completely worn off and you have fully recovered to resume your normal activities, which is safest for up to 24 hours.
- Refrain from driving. Ask a non-drinking friend to drive you to your destination.
- Take public transportation or a taxi to get you there.
- Call a friend or family member to pick you up.
It should be noted that reducing the amount of alcohol consumed is also not a solution. If you intend to drive, you should avoid drinking alcohol altogether.
In Indonesia, there are no specific rules regarding the amount of alcohol consumed while driving. However, there is a law that requires motor vehicle drivers to drive reasonably and with full concentration.
Read Also: Short-Term Effects of Alcohol to Watch Out For
Drivers who do things that can interfere with concentration, including drinking alcohol, can be subject to criminal penalties or fines. The penalties will be even more severe if the driver then causes an accident resulting in damage, minor injuries, serious injuries, or death.
To avoid accidents, especially those that cause fatalities, you should not drive under the influence of alcohol. If you are addicted to alcohol or have difficulty not drinking alcohol, consult a doctor for help.