The Dangers of Driving While Hungover
Every driver, even the inexperienced ones, knows that drunk driving is dangerous and is a common cause of traffic collisions. The NHTSA estimates that almost 40 people die in the U.S. daily in drunk-driving accidents. However, very few people understand the dangers of driving while hungover. Many people assume it is safe to drive after the buzz is over. However, the truth is that the effects of alcohol don’t always wear off after the buzz is over. Driving with a hangover can put the driver, the vehicle occupants, and other road users at risk. This article discusses the dangers of driving while hungover.
What Is a Hangover?
Generally, a hangover is a group of symptoms that someone develops after consuming alcohol. Some people develop a hangover after driving one or two drinks, but for most people, a hangover comes after drinking too much alcohol. The general rule is that the more alcohol you drink, the more likely you are to get a hangover. However, there is no way to tell how much you can safely drink to avoid a hangover. Even people with a high tolerance for alcohol can still get hungover.
What Are the Dangers of Driving With a Hangover?
A night of drinking is over, and a person has slept a few hours. Their BAC level has decreased from 0.08%, which is the legally allowed BAC level in Florida and most other states. However, just because the BAC level has gone down does not mean it is safe to drive. A person may still have alcohol in their system the morning after a night of drinking. Apart from that, if a person is hungover, they may experience symptoms that may impair their ability to drive safely.
Hangovers can cause several symptoms that can affect a person’s ability to drive safely. The following are some of these symptoms;
- Headaches: One thing that is common with most hangovers is headaches. Performing any task, including driving, with a headache can be difficult. Headaches can cause pain and discomfort, making it challenging to focus on the road or react fast.
- Fatigue and weakness: Often, people with a hangover feel fatigued or exhausted and have low energy levels. Driving while fatigued or exhausted can be extremely dangerous. When a person is tired, their alertness and reaction times while driving are decreased.
- Light sensitivity: Sensitivity to light, which is another common hangover symptom, can make it challenging to drive in the sun. Light sensitivity can also make headlights, streetlights, and other light sources more unbearable.
- Nausea and vomiting: It is quite common to experience nausea and vomiting after drinking. These symptoms can distract a driver and cause discomfort while driving.
What Happens When a Hungover Driver Causes an Accident?
If a person causes an accident because they were driving while hungover, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages. They can be held liable for, among other damages, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repairs. However, it is up to the claimant to prove liability on the defendant’s part.
Legal Help Is Available
If you are involved in a car accident because of another driver’s negligence, it is crucial that you seek legal help. Our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm are here for you.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Ocala, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Daytona Beach, Bradenton, Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving
