While virtually any type of collision has the potential to place the safety of those involved at risk, few accidents may be as dangerous as those involving impaired drivers. Even if you choose not to get behind the wheel while under the influence, there is a chance you might encounter someone who does not make such sound decisions.
Should you encounter a drunk driver while out on Pennsylvania roads, you may be left with little time to react and escape to safety. Knowing some of the ways impairment might affect one’s driving capabilities could help you better understand what to watch out for as you travel to and from your destinations.
The effects of impairment
Studies indicate that impairment can affect your ability to safely operate a vehicle in numerous ways, and the effects thereof may only grow in severity as your blood alcohol content increases. Some examples of these effects include:
- Motor skills: The presence of impairment can disrupt motor skills and coordination, both of which are essential components to safely operating a motor vehicle.
- Reaction times: Studies indicate that impairment can also affect driver response times, and those who are unable to respond to scenarios in a timely manner could place everyone nearby at risk.
- Judgment calls: Drunk drivers may also struggle to make vital judgment calls while driving, and anything that disrupts such capabilities could prove exceedingly dangerous.
- Impact on vision: Blurred vision is another possible effect of impairment, and those who drive under similar circumstances run a greater risk of creating a hazardous situation.
- Speed and tracking: Impairment may also affect your ability to track nearby vehicles and objects, and it can also make it difficult to judge and control vehicle speeds.
Those who operate a vehicle while impaired might not always be aware of the risks involved, and if you cross paths with similar forms of negligence, you could be the one left suffering the repercussions.
When a crash occurs
If the negligent actions of a drunk driver cause a collision to occur, there is a chance you could suffer serious or even permanent harm in the process. Along with the physical pain and suffering you might experience, the incident could also prompt costly medical expenses and a long road to recovery. While there might be little you can do to change what took place, seeking insight on the next steps to take to seek accountability could help you better prepare to enter the recovery period with peace of mind.