Can Some People Safely Drive Drunk? Debunking the Myth

For those who hold the belief that some individuals can drunk drive safely, the question remains whether it is a possibility or an illusion. Inspired by personal experiences, this article aims to explore the implications of driving under the influence and debunk the myth that some people can drive drunk without posing a significant risk to themselves or others.

Personal Experiences and Loss

Losing three family members to drunk driving is a traumatic experience that no one can casually dismiss. On Thanksgiving Day in 1998, the tragic event left a lasting impact on my family and home. The untimely death of a drunk driver chased by law enforcement that day serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with impaired driving. It is a stark reality that resonates with the heartbreaking testimonials of many victims of drunk driving accidents.

The Reality of Impaired Driving Abilities

Personal and anecdotal evidence suggests that some individuals, including myself and a significant number of friends and team members, drive under the influence of alcohol on a regular basis, sometimes as frequently as twice a week. While sober, I have never been in an accident in 23 years of driving. Under the influence, I can confidently assert that I still drive better than most drivers on the road, although not always, as there are instances where I refrain from driving entirely.

A DUI Joke

To address the contradictory nature of occasional safe driving after drinking, I have even devised a somewhat sardonic joke. My joke goes along the lines of: "When there's a car accident, they always say alcohol was a factor. That said, I wouldn't recommend anyone drink and drive, but I'd have to argue that some people are better at driving impaired than others."

Impaired Driving: Fact vs. Fiction

It is crucial to understand that driving under the influence of alcohol significantly impairs cognitive and physical functions, including reaction time and observation. While some individuals might maintain control of their vehicle and avoid accidents, it does not necessarily mean they are driving safely.

Alcohol affects each individual differently, but it often results in slower reaction times and impaired judgment. If a drunk driver encounters a situation where other drivers are swaying or driving erratically, the safer course of action for other drivers is to increase distance. This action does not reflect the competence of the drunk driver but rather the precautions taken by responsible drivers. In the event of a critical emergency, such as the sudden need to brake or avoid an obstacle, the consequences are almost always catastrophic.

The Brain and Autopilot Mode

The brain's ability to perform routine tasks, such as driving, in an autopilot mode does not mean the action is safe. While familiar tasks might appear to be performed without issue, the brain's capacity to handle sudden, unexpected situations is severely compromised. Impaired drivers are at heightened risk of accidents, and their behavior endangers not only themselves but also innocent road users.

In summary, the idea of some individuals being able to drive safely after drinking is a common misconception. While personal anecdotes might suggest otherwise, the scientific and empirical evidence overwhelmingly supports the notion that driving under the influence of alcohol is not only dangerous but also impermissible.