The vast majority of Americans are aware of the dangers related to drunk driving. Additionally, most are aware that the law attaches serious legal and financial penalties to a DUI conviction.
However, even though most people understand that driving drunk is dangerous, many are far less aware of the dangers associated with driving hungover. According to AAA, driving home hungover can be just as dangerous as driving after having some drinks.
What are some of the risks?
While some people spend plenty of time “sobering up” in hopes of being able to get behind the wheel, the reality is that in some cases the symptoms begin the moment the alcohol is out of your system. Common side effects of hangovers include fatigue, headaches, increased sensitivity to light and sound and a decreased ability to concentrate.
Unsurprisingly, all of these symptoms combined make driving extremely dangerous if you are hungover. In fact, even if a person does not touch alcohol at all, if they exhibit the signs of a hangover it is not a good idea for them to drive.
How can I “sober up” effectively?
Even though people may swear by drinking coffee or taking cold showers, none of these things will affect the amount of alcohol in your system or whether or not you have a hangover. Essentially, the only thing that will sober someone up is time. Remember that it can take up to 90 minutes or longer for the body to eliminate the alcohol in a single alcoholic beverage.
In many cases, not only is it smart for you to arrange prior transportation after a night of drinking, but it is also smart to have transportation for the day after.
