## CHAPTER 9 / ALCOHOL & OTHER DRUGS 

You have probably heard the facts before – driving while impaired or intoxicated is a serious traffic safety problem in the United States. In New York State, more than 20 percent of all highway deaths involve the use of alcohol or other drugs. But the facts and statistics do not tell the whole story. Behind the numbers are thousands of lives cut short, permanent or disabling injuries, and families devastated because someone drove while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. 

When you drink alcohol or take other drugs, safe driving is not possible. Not every impaired or intoxicated driver causes a traffic crash, but each one is dangerous, putting the lives of himself or herself and those sharing the road at risk. 

Young people, who have less experience with alcohol or drugs and driving are especially at high risk. Drivers under age 21 are approximately 4 percent of the driving population, but 7 percent of the impaired drivers involved in fatal crashes. This is one reason the driver license revocation penal- ties are more severe for young drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. 

Because driving “under the influence” is so dangerous, the penalties for alcohol or drug-re- lated violations are tough and enforcement is important. The chance of apprehension and con- viction are high and New York State law strictly limits your ability to plea bargain when charged with an offense related to alcohol or drugs. 

## WHAT ALCOHOL DOES 

Alcohol increases reaction time, reduces your ability to see clearly, changes your judgment of speed and distances, often makes you less inhib- ited and makes you more prone to take chances. The important skills you need to drive safely are made weaker. 

Because your vision is normally restricted at night, it is especially dangerous to drink and drive after dark. Alcohol also reduces your ability to re- cover from the glare of headlights. When another vehicle moves toward you, you can be blinded by its headlights for a long period of time. 

You do not have to look or feel intoxicated for these things to occur. The effects of alcohol consumption can begin long before you become intoxicated or even legally impaired and begin with the first drink. 

As alcohol physically limits your ability to drive, it also makes you less aware of what is happening to your safe driving abilities. It becomes difficult for you to judge your condition. You can gain confidence about driving, when you should not be driving at all. 

During each mile you drive, you make hundreds of decisions. Your decisions turn into actions that keep your vehicle controlled and ensure you avoid crashes. Alcohol makes it difficult to make correct decisions and to take the safest actions. 

For example:  You have just stopped at a STOP sign. You see another vehicle approaching the intersection. You must quickly make a decision whether it is safe to go through the intersection. Under the influence of alcohol, you are more like- ly to make a wrong decision and “take a chance.” Your slower reaction time, and the bad decision, could cause a crash. 

## OTHER DRUGS 

Drugs, which include many prescription and over-the-counter medications, can affect your ability to drive. They can have effects similar to alcohol or even worse. If you take medication, even a remedy for colds or allergies that is not prescribed, check the label for warnings about its effects. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist about driving while on the medication. 

Never drink alcohol while you are taking other drugs. It could be dangerous, often enhancing the effects of the alcohol and the other drug. For example, taking one drink while you are also using a cold remedy could affect you as much as several drinks. 

