Alcohol and Driving: Busting the ‘I Drive Better After a Drink’ Myth

Driving is a responsibility that requires a person’s full attention and good judgment. Unfortunately, there are many myths about drinking and driving that can lead to dangerous decisions and tragic consequences. By understanding the true effects of alcohol on driving abilities and the legal consequences of driving under the influence, we can all make better choices that ensure our safety and the safety of others.

The Truth About Drinking and Driving: Busting Common Myths

• Myth 1: You can drive safely after a few drinks if you’re not feeling drunk. Many people think that as long as they don’t feel drunk and aren’t slurring their words, they can drive safely after having a few drinks. However, alcohol can affect your ability to drive well even if you don’t feel its effects strongly. Alcohol starts to impair your thinking, reasoning and muscle coordination at a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of just 0.02%, which can happen after only one or two drinks. This makes it much harder to react quickly and make safe driving decisions.
• Myth 2: Coffee or a cold shower can sober you up before driving. Some people believe that drinking coffee or taking a cold shower can help sober them up and make it safe to drive. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) explains that only time can lower your BAC and reduce the effects of alcohol. Your liver needs time to process the alcohol, and nothing can speed up this process. It’s best to wait several hours and make sure you’re completely sober before getting behind the wheel.
• Myth 3: It’s okay to drive if you’re under the legal BAC limit. Just because your BAC is under the legal limit (usually 0.08% in the U.S.) doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair driving ability. It’s always safer to avoid driving completely if you’ve been drinking.
• Myth 4: You can only get a DUI if your BAC is over 0.08%. This is not true. You can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) even if your BAC is below 0.08%. If a police officer thinks that alcohol has made you unable to drive safely, you can still get a DUI.
• Myth 5: Driving after drinking is mostly a problem for young drivers. While young drivers are at a higher risk for crashes related to drinking and driving, it’s a problem for all age groups. Alcohol-related driving accidents can happen at any age, and it’s important for all drivers to be responsible.

Understanding the truth about drinking and driving can help you make safer choices on the road. Remember, the best decision is always to not drive at all after drinking. Plan ahead by arranging a ride with a sober friend or using a taxi or rideshare service.

Resources

Military OneSource
Support for Military Personnel & Families | Military OneSource is a DoD supported service offering 24/7 confidential support and specializes in helping military members, families and veterans. Services are provided CONUS and OCONUS via call-in, live chat and text on their website and mobile app.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
You may also call the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free and confidential treatment referral and information service (provided in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders and is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Check out additional resources for Service members here.