Netcare 911: Dangers of drinking and driving

As the alcohol ban has been lifted in lockdown Level 2, Netcare 911 warns the public about the dangers of drunk driving as any amount of alcohol in your bloodstream can affect your driving ability.

“The effects of alcohol vary greatly, putting you at risk of causing an accident,” said Netcare 911. ” Safe driving requires the ability to concentrate, make good judgements and quickly react to situations. Alcohol affects these risks, putting you and others and in danger.”

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Netcare 911 has provided the following ways in which alcohol impairs your driving skills:

• Slow reaction time: When alcohol is in your system it affects how quickly you are able to respond to different situations. Drinking slows your response time, which can increase the likelihood of a collision. For example, the car in front of you suddenly brakes or a pedestrian crosses the street, it will take longer for your brain to process the situation to prevent a crash.
• Lack of coordination: Heavy drinking affects your motor skills such as eye, hand and foot coordination. Without crucial coordination skills, you may be unable to avoid impending harmful situations. Some tell-tale signs of reduced coordination include trouble working, swaying and inability to stand straight. Too much alcohol can even make it difficult to get in your car and find its ignition.
• Reduced concentration: In order to keep to the rules of the road and remain safe driving requires your full concentration. Your attention span is dramatically reduced with drinking, which significantly increases the chance of a crash.
• Decreased vision: Excessive alcohol consumption can affect your vision. After drinking, you may notice that your vision is blurred or that you are unable to control your eye movement. Impaired vision can affect how you judge the distance between your car and other vehicles on the road. In addition, fewer objects may be visible within your peripheral vision.
• Inhibited judgement: When operating a motorised vehicle, your judgement skills play an important role in decision making. For instance, you need to be able to foresee potential problems and make clear decisions if another vehicle cuts you off. Your judgement helps you stay alert and aware of surrounding conditions while driving.

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