We all know, or should know, the dangers of drunk driving. Yet, despite numerous public service campaigns to put an end to drunk driving, many Louisianans continue to drink and drive. Some think that they can consume a few alcoholic beverages and remain below the legal limit. While this might be true, even a relatively minor amount of blood in an individual’s system can affect his or her driving abilities, putting him or herself and others at risk of being injured or killed in a serious car accident.
The effects of alcohol can be seen with a blood-alcohol concentration of just .02 percent, and there are many aspects of a driver’s capabilities that can be affected. First, one’s ability to concentrate on multiple duties can be impaired. Thus, a driver may be unable to adequately judge his or her speed, distance between other vehicles and to upcoming stop lights and stop signs and vehicle positions.
Additionally, alcohol can be detrimental to a motorist’s comprehension of a situation. Therefore, a driver who has been drinking may be unable to interpret a situation and act accordingly. He or she may fail to slow down for slowing traffic or move over for stopped vehicles. Other skills that can be affected by alcohol include coordination, vision, hearing and reaction time. Reduced capabilities in any of these areas can lead to a tragic accident, leaving victims with undeserved injuries and financial losses.
Those who have been hurt in a car accident may be wondering how best to go about trying to recover their damages. Fortunately, compensation may be recovered via a personal injury lawsuit against a drunk driver. To learn more about how to prove that negligent driver was under the influence of alcohol, victims can contact a legal professional of their choosing.
Source: University of Texas – San Antonio, “How Alcohol Can Affect Safe Driving Skills,” accessed on Oct. 22, 2016