drinkdriving

Drink driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol, is the act of operating a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol to the extent that driving ability is impaired. Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, coordination, and vision, increasing the risk of collisions.

Legal frameworks vary by country. Most jurisdictions set a legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers, commonly around 0.05% to 0.08%. Some places have lower limits for new or professional drivers, while others maintain zero-tolerance policies for specific groups. Prosecutions may cover driving while intoxicated, involvement in accidents, and repeated offenses. Impairment can also be established through standardized field sobriety tests.

Penalties for drink driving typically include fines, license suspension or revocation, and, in more serious cases, imprisonment. Offenders may be required to attend education or treatment programs, and ignition interlock devices may be mandated to prevent vehicle operation after drinking.

Enforcement methods include roadside breath testing, random or checkpoint-based sobriety checks, and traffic patrols. Public education campaigns promote safer alternatives and deter drink driving by reinforcing social norms and legal consequences.

Prevention strategies emphasize designated drivers, public transportation, ride-hailing services, and server-training programs to refuse service to intoxicated patrons. Media campaigns and community programs aim to reduce drinking and driving rates and to encourage planning for safe return journeys.

Alcohol-related driving remains a major cause of road traffic fatalities and injuries worldwide. Effective reduction relies on a combination of strict laws, active enforcement, public education, and accessible safe transportation options.