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Why is drunk driving so dangerous?

On Behalf of | Nov 18, 2015 | Drunk Driving Accidents

It is possible for a drunk driver to cause serious injuries and fatalities even after a short drive. Around 32 percent of fatal car accidents are caused by an intoxicated driver. But, why is it so dangerous for drunk individuals to get behind the wheel of a car?

Medical professionals say it is because of the way alcohol affect the human body. Alcohol has an effect on a person’s central nervous system. When a person drinks, the functions of the central nervous system are slowed. Essentially, alcohol is a depressant. This results in slower and delayed brain function. A person who is under the influence of alcohol, therefore, is unable to perform as normal.

As a result, a person suffers from a variety of cognitive and physical effects. This includes slower processing skills and poor hand-eye coordination. Drunk drivers cannot exercise the same sort of concentration, coordination or judgment that a sober driver can. Their reaction times are slower and their visual acuity is also impaired.

Many of the same adverse effects are also present when a driver is under the influence of drugs. Drugs have the ability to affect a person’s memory, reaction time, judgment, motor skills and other important skills needed for driving.

Drunk and impaired drivers cause many of the accidents that injure Virginia residents. When these accidents occur, people need to understand their legal rights. Drunk driving accident victims may be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against a drunk driver. In doing so, people can collect compensation for their injuries.