Think twice before driving with a hangover
Written by Jay M. Kelley III in Accident & Injury on January 2, 2019
Most people think driving with a hangover is much safer than driving drunk.
But a recent article by the American Automobile Association explains why driving while hungover can be as dangerous as drunk driving.
Many people have experienced a hangover and are well aware of the unpleasant side effects that go along with one:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
It is not hard to imagine why driving with these symptoms could be dangerous. But the dangers of driving while hungover are compounded when you consider the fact that many of these drivers still have alcohol in their systems.
So a hungover driver could have a pounding headache, nausea, and still have a blood alcohol concentration level that is above the legal limit. This can potentially cause a drunk driving accident in Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, or Dayton for example.
The effects of a hangover can last up to 24 hours. But hangovers can last longer if a larger quantity of alcohol was consumed – or if the drinking lasted a long time.
Is it really a good idea to drive with a hangover? Probably not, but it depends on the severity of the hangover.
The only thing that will help a driver sober up is time. And since the effects of a hangover can last 24 hours or longer, it may be wise to wait. If waiting isn’t an option, delegate a friend to the task.
The next time you’re planning on going out for a night of drinking, plan ahead. No one wants a hangover, so practice responsible drinking. To keep yourself safe, choose a designated driver or take public transportation home. Whatever you do, don’t drive home drunk – or hungover.
Jay M. Kelly III - Managing Partner
Meet Jay M. Kelley III, a top medical malpractice attorney in Ohio with over 25 years of experience and $200 million in verdicts and settlements. He leads Elk + Elk’s litigation strategy in state and federal courts and has a unique background as a former felony prosecutor and hospital defense lawyer. Jay specializes in complex cases, including birth injuries and wrongful death, and is recognized by Best Lawyers and ranked among the Super Lawyers Top 10 in Ohio.
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