SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Drunk driving is not just a mistake, it is a deadly decision with irreversible consequences. Despite widespread awareness, far too many lives are lost each year due to impaired driving. In the United States alone, 13,524 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2022. This equates to an average of 37 deaths per day, each one is preventable.
Understanding why alcohol impairs driving begins with knowing how the body processes it. The way alcohol is absorbed and metabolized directly affects how quickly impairment sets in and how long it lasts. Even small amounts of alcohol can have a significant impact on motor skills, judgment, and reaction times.
Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) and Its Effects
In Germany, the legal BAC limit is 0.05% for drivers aged 21 and older, and 0.00% for those under 21.
It doesn’t take much alcohol to exceed a BAC of .01%. For example:
- A 170-pound male consuming one drink may reach a BAC of 0.02%, taking approximately one hour to return to 0.00%.
- Two drinks may increase BAC to 0.05%, requiring about three hours for elimination.
- A 150-pound female consuming two drinks may reach a BAC of 0.06%, taking approximately four hours to return to 0.00%.
At a BAC level of .05, drivers have a reduced ability to track moving objects, difficulty steering, and a reduced response to emergency driving situations. They may also exhibit lowered alertness, impaired judgement and a loss of small muscle control (such as focusing your eyes).
How to Be a Responsible Driver
Driving under the influence is never worth the risk. Plan ahead and make responsible choices by following these steps:
- Plan your safe ride home before you start the party and designate a sober driver before attending any event where alcohol is involved.
- If someone you know has been drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel. Take their keys and arrange a drive home for them.
- If you’re hosting a party where alcohol will be served, make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.
- Always wear your seatbelt - it’s your best defense against impaired drivers.
Contact Airmen Against Drunk Driving (AADD) at 0151 11239722.