Alcohol, drugs, medication, fatigue and driver fitness
Limits
- The blood alcohol limit is 0.02% (20 mg per 100 ml). This is among the lowest in Europe; one standard drink can exceed it.
- Driving under the influence of drugs, including some medicines, is prohibited regardless of amount.
- Prescription medicines that cause drowsiness carry a warning; ask your doctor or pharmacist before driving.
- Refusing a breath, blood or urine test is punishable.
Penalties
Fines, licence suspension, and in serious cases imprisonment. Repeat offences and causing injury bring heavier penalties.
Fatigue and fitness
- Fatigue impairs judgement like alcohol. Take a 15 to 20 minute break at least every two hours.
- Do not drive if ill, extremely tired, or after a night with little sleep.
- Eyesight must meet the required standard; wear glasses or lenses if your licence requires them.
Worked example
You had two beers at 23:00 and drive at 07:00. Alcohol is eliminated slowly; you may still be over 0.02%. Coffee, a shower and fresh air do not speed elimination. The only safe answer is not to drive.
Traps
Believing the morning after is always safe; thinking coffee sobers you; assuming a prescribed medicine is always legal to drive on; forgetting that fatigue is a legal and practical risk.