Thousands of arrests involving driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol are made yearly in Delaware. This raises the question of why someone can choose to drive while impaired when they are well-informed of the consequences.
Over the years, numerous studies have been done to determine the factors that lead to people getting behind the wheel while drunk. Here are four of them:
1. Underestimating impairment
Alcohol impairs cognitive judgment. It makes it difficult for someone to assess risk accurately, which can lead to them overestimating their abilities, including driving abilities. Thus, a drunk driver has a false sense of security. Not only do they feel they can drive, but some also believe they drive better when drunk.
Underestimating the level of intoxication while overestimating driving abilities leads to many drunk drivers on the road.
2. Short-distance driving
Some people choose to drive drunk when they are not that far from their destination. That’s why many people drink at bars or restaurants in their neighborhood after work and subsequently drive home. But in those few minutes they are behind the wheel, an accident can happen.
3. Lack of other transportation options
When someone is drunk in a place with limited public transit, ride-sharing or taxis, they may opt to use their vehicle. For example, when they attend a party in a rural area and don’t plan for alternative transportation or have a designated driver. The lack of transportation options is always further fueled by impaired judgment and overconfidence.
4. Belief they won’t get caught
Many people who drive while drunk have done so before, and they were not caught. This makes them want to do it as a habit.
Drunk driving causes serious injuries and fatalities yearly. If a drunk driver hit you, understanding the legal steps to take is crucial in protecting your rights.