Drinking & Driving

Drinking and driving is a serious issue that affects countless lives each year. Despite widespread awareness campaigns, many people still believe myths that downplay the dangers of alcohol-impaired driving. Understanding the facts can help prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Test Your Reaction Time

Before getting behind the wheel, consider testing your reaction time. Try touching the numbers below in sequential order within five seconds:

3, 11, 7, 10, 8, 2, 12, 9, 5, 4, 6, 1.

If it takes longer than ten seconds, your reaction time is slow. In such cases, it may be wise to reconsider driving and opt for an alternative mode of transportation, such as a cab or a rideshare service.

Consider the Facts:

• Nearly 3 in every 10 Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related traffic crash at some point in their lives.
• 4% of all traffic fatalities involve an intoxicated driver or pedestrian.
• One alcohol-related fatality occurs every 30 minutes in the U.S.
• Every 2 minutes, someone is injured in a crash where alcohol is a factor.
• The estimated cost of alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes is approximately $34 billion annually.

Combat Drunk Driving with Prevention

There are many misconceptions about alcohol and driving that can put people at risk. Let’s examine some of these common myths and the facts that debunk them.

Myths and Facts About Drinking and Driving

Myth: “I drive better after a few drinks. It makes me more aware.”

Fact: Even a 0.02% blood alcohol level affects your ability to drive safely. The probability of a crash significantly increases at 0.05% BAC and rises steeply at 0.08% BAC, which is the legal limit in many states.

Myth: “Drinking beer won’t get me as drunk as shots of liquor.”

Fact: Alcohol content matters more than the type of drink. One standard drink—whether it’s 1.5 oz. of liquor, 12 oz. of beer, or 5 oz. of wine—has the same effect on the brain and body.

Myth: “If a guest gets drunk at my party and crashes their car, it’s not my responsibility.”

Fact: As a host, you may be held legally liable for the actions of intoxicated guests.

Myth: “One or two drinks won’t affect me, so I can still drive.”

Fact: Alcohol is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, impairing judgment, coordination, and vision—even after just one or two drinks.

Myth: “If I get caught drunk driving, I can just hire a good lawyer to get me off.”

Fact: In Milwaukee, 98% of drunk driving cases result in a conviction. First-time offenders face fines between $150 – $300, license revocation (6-9 months), and six points on their driving record—plus significantly higher insurance rates.

Myth: “Coffee, fresh air, or a cold shower will sober me up.”

Fact: None of these remedies reduce alcohol’s effects. The only way to sober up is time—about one hour per standard drink.

Safe Alternatives to Drinking and Driving

If you plan to drink, consider these safer options:

• Designate a sober driver before going out.
• Host responsible parties by limiting alcohol consumption and providing plenty of food.
• Offer non-alcoholic beverages as an alternative.
• Stop serving alcohol at least an hour before your party ends.

Drinking and driving is never worth the risk. With one decision, lives can be lost, families devastated, and futures ruined. By making responsible choices and encouraging others to do the same, we can reduce preventable tragedies and keep our roads safer for everyone.

Stay Safe. Stay Responsible.

If you or someone you know has been drinking, find an alternative to driving—call a cab, use a rideshare service, or stay overnight. Your life and the lives of others depend on it.