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Impaired Driving
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Safety Issues

Impaired Driving

Impaired driving is a major safety hazard responsible for more than half of all car crashes, and it is entirely preventable.

Understanding Impaired Driving

Impaired driving is dangerous and is the cause of more than half of all car crashes. It means operating a motor vehicle while you are affected by:

  • Alcohol
  • Legal or illegal drugs
  • Sleepiness
  • Distractions, such as using a cell phone or texting
  • Having a medical condition which affects your driving

Safety Recommendations

For your safety and the safety of others, do not drive while impaired. Have someone else drive you or take public transportation when you cannot drive. If you need to take a call or send a text message, pull over.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no truly safe amount of alcohol to consume before driving, as even small amounts can impair judgment and reaction time. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in most U.S. states is 0.08%, but impairment can begin at much lower levels. It's best to avoid alcohol entirely if you plan to drive, or designate a sober driver.
The legal consequences of impaired driving can be severe and vary by jurisdiction. They often include hefty fines, suspension or revocation of your driver's license, mandatory alcohol education programs, increased insurance rates, and potential jail time. Repeat offenses typically result in even harsher penalties.
Many prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or impaired concentration, all of which can affect your ability to drive safely. Always read medication labels carefully for warnings about operating machinery or driving. If you're unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist if a medication could impair your driving before getting behind the wheel.
To avoid driving while fatigued, ensure you get adequate sleep before long trips. If you feel drowsy while driving, pull over to a safe location and rest, take a short nap, or switch drivers. Avoid driving during hours when you would normally be asleep. Caffeine can offer a temporary boost, but it's not a substitute for sleep.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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