Signs You Are Too Drunk to Drive

Key Takeaways

• Arizona may charge DUI with any level of impairment.
• The legal BAC limit for drivers in Arizona is 0.08 percent.
• Physical signs like blurred vision or slurred speech indicate unsafe driving impairment.
• Alcohol can cause delayed reaction times that increase crash risk.
• Cognitive impairment from alcohol can reduce concentration and short-term memory.

Driving while intoxicated is against the law in all 50 states. While the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) level in Arizona is 0.08 percent, it is possible to get a DUI, or driving under the influence charge in Scottsdale, AZ, with any level of impairment. Recognizing when you are too drunk to drive is crucial for ensuring your safety and the safety of others, as well as keeping you out of legal trouble.

Physical Signs

Being inebriated can come with many physical signs. Every individual is unique and the signs of drunkenness can vary significantly from person to person. However, below are the physical effects of alcohol commonly experienced by people who are too drunk to drive:

• Blurred vision
• Impaired motor skills
• Lack of coordination
• Difficulty with basic movements
• Trouble maintaining balance
• Difficulty walking in a straight line
• Trouble picking up objects
• Hand tremors
• Slurred speech or mumbling
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Difficulty staying awake or alert
• Bloodshot eyes
• Changes in facial skin color
• Decrease in sensory perception

If you notice any of these physical signs of drunkenness, do not get behind the wheel. Any change in how you physically feel or are able to function is a red flag that you are too intoxicated to drive. If you are with friends, try the one-legged stand test or walk-the-line field test to check your sobriety.

Changes in Behavior

Being under the influence of alcohol often changes an individual’s mood, personality and behaviors. You may be feeling the effects of alcohol if your behaviors change. You might notice impaired judgment, increased impulsivity or recklessness, exaggerated joy, loud talking or singing, flirting, swearing more than usual, aggressiveness, anger, or amplified sadness. These are signs that you are too intoxicated to drive, as your judgment and decision-making abilities are likely impaired.

Delayed Reaction Times

 Alcohol tends to have the effect of slowing an individual down. From poor coordination to slurred speech, an intoxicated individual may find it difficult to move, think and talk as quickly as normal. As a driver, this can make it difficult to react quickly and appropriately to unexpected roadway situations, such as sudden stops or obstacles. A delayed response in these circumstances could result in a motor vehicle collision.

Cognitive Impairment

 Drinking alcohol can affect cognitive function. You may notice that you are having a hard time concentrating or focusing on one subject. You may easily lose your train of thought or forget what you were just talking about. Short-term memory is often impaired, making it difficult to remember things that just occurred. If you notice any of these cognitive changes, you are too drunk to drive.

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How to Avoid Drunk Driving

 Before you go out, plan ahead. If you know you will be drinking alcohol, do not plan on driving. Arrange a ride with a sober driver, take the bus, or use a taxi or rideshare service. If you are going to a friend’s house, ask if you can spend the night to avoid driving home. 

Give someone else your keys when you arrive at your destination. Know your limits and moderate your alcohol consumption to avoid putting yourself in a position to drive home drunk. Eat food and drink water in between alcoholic beverages.

If you get arrested for allegedly driving under the influence in Scottsdale, contact the DUI lawyers in Scottsdale at the Law Offices of John Phebus for a free legal consultation.

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