How to Prevent Alcohol-related Accidents—Stopping the Rot

Updated on September 14, 2022

Around 15% of deaths on the road are related to alcohol, which is a staggering amount to say it’s illegal to drink and drive. There’s a limit for a reason and it’s to this day often killing innocent bystanders. 

And that’s just on the road, alcohol-related accidents are a serious problem and in many cases, they’re the result of years of addiction where help should really have been gotten, largely through alcohol rehab and a strong recovery program. More people are now turning to this, but that is far from the end of the matter with more and more people suffering from alcohol addiction following the pandemic.

And, of course, there are people that aren’t necessarily addicted but do abuse alcohol from time to time. Ultimately, drinking alcohol can affect decision-making, slow down reactions, alter our coordination and balance, as well as lead to a lack of concentration, all major contributing factors to accidents. 

So, how can we prevent such accidents?

Don’t take such risks in the first place

We all know the risks of drunk driving, so don’t do it in the first place. This also extends out to other parts of life, such as going swimming under the influence or operating heavy machinery. You may not think it’ll be you something happens to, but there’s just as much chance as the next person.

Additionally, keep an eye out for friends that may also potentially be thinking of taking these risks and prevent them from doing so.

Maintain control of your alcohol intake

Set yourself limits on what you’re going to be drinking, and eating, and generally set yourself out a plan so you maintain control and remain sensible while out and about. By avoiding drinking too much in the first place, you’ll be able to make clearer and responsible decisions that are less likely to lead to accidents.

Remember the next day

Just because you’ve slept since the last time you touched a drop of alcohol, that doesn’t mean that you’re over the hill and sober again. It could well be that you’re still under the influence of alcohol and just as likely to have an accident. 

It’s safest to not drink at all the night before if you’re driving the next day, particularly when it comes to binge drinking. Your reactions will still be slow and concentration levels and tiredness will also set in that can lead to accidents.

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