We all understand that drivers who operate motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol create a danger for all other drivers on the road. Many people who routinely drive drunk and expose other people to their carelessness and lack of concern believe that they can get away with driving while intoxicated for various reasons. Some of these reasons are discussed below.
Myth # 1 – You Can Sober Yourself by Utilizing Various Tricks
Many people believe that they can “sober up” by drinking coffee, playing their stereo loudly, or rolling down the car window while driving. None of these “tricks” will actually sober a person up, however, and some of these tricks can actually add distraction to a driver who should already not be driving. In other words, playing a stereo loudly, for example, can prevent a driver from being able to hear clearly.
Myth # 2 – You Can Fool the Breathalyzer
Some believe that it is possible to “beat” a breathalyzer test. One such trick is placing a penny under your tongue. Not only does this trick not work, but law enforcement also checks motorists’ mouths while performing a breath alcohol test.
Myth # 3 – Alcohol is a Stimulant That Sharpens Your Senses
In reality, alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. One of the organs that alcohol depresses is the brain, which is the center of impulse control and whose proper functioning is a critical element of safely operating a motor vehicle. As a result, intoxicated people often engage in reckless activities and other things that they would likely avoid if they were still sober.
Myth # 4 – Drive Slowly and You Will be Ok
People who are intoxicated often drive slowly, but an intoxicated person can crash their car while going slow just as easily as you can while going fast. Driving slowly while intoxicated is still dangerous and puts other drivers on the road who have not been drinking at an increased risk.
Myth # 5 – If the Car is Not Moving, it is Not a DUI
No intoxicated person should ever operate a vehicle. In Missouri and Kansas, operating a vehicle not only means physically driving the vehicle, but it also means being in physical control of the vehicle. For example, in the case State v. Wiles, the Missouri Supreme Court found that a man was operating his vehicle even though he had passed out at the wheel while his vehicle was running. The vehicle was idling in park but was viewed by the court as still operational.
Contact a Missouri Car Crash Attorney
People who drink and drive put other drivers at increased risk of being harmed by their reckless and negligent conduct. Defense attorneys and their clients will routinely deny that they had been drinking and driving, which is why the evidence collected by law enforcement after a car crash can be vital. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving crash, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer. Contact House Law LLC today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Tags: auto accident, car accident, personal injury
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