Alcohol, Drugs, Fatigue and Distracted Driving
What the exam tests
This domain tests impairment, legal limits and the practical signs of fatigue and distraction. It is not enough to know that drink-driving is bad; you must recognise when you are unfit to drive.
Core rules
- Lebanon's general blood-alcohol threshold is commonly stated as 0.05% BAC, equivalent to 50 mg per 100 mL. Commercial and novice drivers should expect stricter treatment. Any alcohol can impair judgement before you feel drunk.
- Illegal drugs, some medicines and extreme fatigue can make driving an offence or make insurance cover invalid. Read medicine warnings and do not drive if drowsy.
- Fatigue: take a break at least every two hours, and more often at night. A short nap and caffeine help temporarily; they do not replace sleep.
- Distraction: hand-held phone use is illegal and dangerous. Even hands-free calls load attention. Do not text, eat, smoke or adjust devices while moving.
- Passengers and loud music can distract. Secure children and pets.
Worked example
A driver is stopped and records 0.05% BAC. He argues he feels fine and has driven for years. The offence is still complete because the legal threshold has been reached. Reasoning: the law sets a measurable limit; subjective confidence does not cancel impairment or liability.
Traps
Believing coffee, a cold shower or fresh air sobers you up; thinking hands-free is risk-free; driving on medicine without reading the label; mistaking fatigue for boredom; assuming a small drink is safe because you ate.