Drinking and driving is never a good idea. Unfortunately, some people who find themselves having a bit too much fun, believe that there are quick-fix methods of sobering up once they have had too much to drink. Don’t be fooled by the following myths. They will not reduce the level of alcohol in your system or make it safe for you to drive.
Myth #1 – My pocket breathalyzer says I’m below the legal limit, so I’m good to go.
Some people have their own personal breathalyzers. These will measure your breath alcohol concentration (BrAC), but remember, any amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive. Just because you register under the legal limit does not mean it’s safe for you to get behind the wheel. Safety first: Do not drive after consuming any amount of alcohol.
Myth #2 – If I sleep for a little while, I’ll be fine to drive.
You had a few drinks, and you think that sleeping for a few hours will help you get the alcohol out of your system. Part of that is true (the time part), but it takes much longer than people think. If you have four drinks, you would need to sleep for at least 8 hours to fully metabolize that alcohol. Chances are if you just take a little nap, you’ll probably wake up and still be in no condition to drive. Safety first: Get a ride with a sober friend.
Myth #3 – Lots of coffee will sober me up.
This is probably the scariest myth. Coffee has absolutely no effect on the alcohol in your system. If you’re tired, your coffee consumption might wake you up a little bit, but you’re still going to be impaired. It is NOT safe to get into your car and drive after drinking just because you’ve had a cup of coffee. Safety first: Use your rideshare app and split the cost with a friend.
Myth #4 – Maybe if I just eat a heavy meal I’ll be able to drive.
Most people know that if you start drinking on an empty stomach the alcohol gets into your system faster. That’s because the alcohol passes directly to the intestine and from there, it goes into your bloodstream and to your brain. A lack of food means there is no barrier to the absorption of alcohol. Eating after you drink, is too little, too late. The alcohol is already in your bloodstream and no amount of food will change your blood alcohol level. Safety first: Call someone you trust to pick you up.
Myth #5 – I’ll be OK to drive if I just stick to beer or wine.
Beer, wine, or a shot of your favorite spirits, it makes no difference what you drink, it’s all about the alcohol content. Your blood alcohol content determines how drunk you get. Safety first: If your plans include alcohol consumption, be proactive, and do not even take your car. Find an alternate way to get there and get back. That way you are not tempted to drive when you shouldn’t.
If you are impaired, nothing will help make you sober except time. Your body just needs time to break down the alcohol in your system. Remember, safety first.
If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of receiving a DWI/DUI, the state of North Carolina will require the installation of an ignition interlock in your car in order to resume driving. Monitech is here to help you through your interlock program as easily and as affordably as possible. Our goal is to help you get back on the road safely while keeping our communities safe.
Call us today at 800-521-4246 or visit our website at monitechnc.com to get started.
Putting that DUI Behind You
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