Alcohol, Drugs and Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drugs impair judgement, reaction time, coordination and vision long before a driver feels drunk. The only safe approach is not to drink at all if you will drive. In The Bahamas, driving with a blood alcohol concentration above the prescribed limit is an offence, and police may require a breath, blood or urine test where they reasonably suspect alcohol or drugs. Refusing a lawful test can itself be an offence.
Impairment is not limited to alcohol. Cannabis, cocaine, prescription medicines and even some over-the-counter remedies can make you unfit to drive. Many prescription medicines warn against driving; read the label and ask a pharmacist. Combining substances multiplies the risk. Fatigue is a similar impairment: tiredness slows reactions and can cause micro-sleeps, so stop and rest rather than pressing on.
Penalties for impaired driving are severe and can include heavy fines, disqualification, imprisonment and vehicle seizure. A conviction may also affect insurance and employment. If you are convicted of driving while impaired, you may be required to complete a rehabilitation course before your licence is restored.
Question traps include believing coffee, fresh air or a cold shower sobers you up, or that a small amount of alcohol is safe. Time is the only thing that removes alcohol from the body. Another trap is assuming a prescription medicine is safe because a doctor supplied it. Also remember that you can be unfit to drive through drugs even if you are under any numeric alcohol limit.
Rule of thumb: if you have consumed any alcohol or feel impaired, do not drive. Plan a designated driver, a taxi or public transport before you go out.