Driving under the influence is the act of operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a drug. It is also called driving while intoxicated, or drunk driving. If you are guilty of operating under the influence, you may have to pay fines or go to jail. Fortunately, there are certain steps that you can take to protect yourself from having to deal with these consequences.
Drugs that impair driving ability
In the United States, drugs that impair driving ability increase the risk of auto accidents. These drugs can affect a driver’s reaction time, impulsivity, concentration, and judgment. In addition, some drivers may engage in aggressive or reckless behavior.
There are various substances that can impact driving, including alcohol, prescription medications, and over-the-counter cough and cold medication. And you need the help of a car accidents caused by someone driving under the influence of drugs lawyer. Although all of these drugs have been known to affect driving, some drugs have more of an effect than others.
For example, some prescription medicines, such as antihistamines, may cause extreme drowsiness. However, other drugs, such as stimulants, may increase alertness. In addition, some drugs have hallucinogenic properties, which can change perceptions. The result is that a person can drive too fast or veer off into another lane.
A recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) showed that drivers who were under the influence of alcohol were more likely to test positive for drugs that impair driving ability. This is in part because combining alcohol and drugs amplifies the effects.
Several substances, such as cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine, can be misused and can even alter how a driver perceives the world. Often, these drugs impair a driver’s hand-eye coordination and depth perception. The use of these drugs can be especially dangerous.
Alcohol that impairs driving ability
Alcohol impairs driving ability by slowing the speed of information processing and reaction. It makes it difficult to make decisions, plan ahead, or respond appropriately to sudden events. It also increases the risk of an accident.
Alcohol can affect several senses, including vision, hearing, and depth perception. The effects of alcohol on these senses can vary with the type of drug and the amount of alcohol consumed. Aside from these, depressants can also affect the central nervous system, causing impaired concentration, relaxation of muscles, and difficulty seeing.
Although these effects can be harmful, they are not fatal. Many drivers who have had a few drinks are unaware of their reduced driving skills.
When driving, a driver needs to have undivided attention. Drowsy drivers are prone to accidents. A drowsy driver will miss hazards, drive slowly, and fail to react to sudden changes.
Alcohol can slow down the brain’s reaction time and cause it to misinterpret sensory information. This makes it difficult to judge the condition of a vehicle or road. For example, a driver may have trouble finding the ignition, and their vision may be blurry.
Other signs of impaired coordination include difficulty walking, inability to stand straight, and swaying. Drowsy drivers can also have trouble understanding road signs.
Treatment for driving under the influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and can lead to accidents and other serious consequences. Fortunately, there are options for treating people who drive while under the influence.
Many people who are arrested for DUI have co-occurring mental health issues. This is especially true among repeat offenders. It is crucial for treatment providers to consider this issue when assessing and treating a client. This is because failure to identify and treat these issues can result in negative consequences in the justice system.
DUI treatment programs should focus on reducing recidivism, improving the quality of life, and eliminating access to illicit substances. These goals are most effective in programs that are at least 90 days long.
Treatment for DUI may include formal substance abuse treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other interventions. The court will determine the intensity of the program and the duration of treatment. It may be an outpatient or inpatient program. The program should have aftercare services, which provide ongoing support for patients in early recovery.
Treatment for DUI is expensive. The cost can include lost wages and other court-related costs. Moreover, DUI treatment can increase auto insurance rates. In addition, DUI is a criminal offense, and a driver’s license can be suspended.
