Thinking Distance

Alcohol's effect on the brain slows down a person's reaction times – you take longer to respond to situations and hazards. If the person is driving a car (or riding a moped, motorcycle or bicycle), their 'thinking distance' is increased. For example, if a cat ran out in front of the car, there is a short delay between the driver seeing the hazard and putting their foot on the brake. The distance traveled by the car during this time is the 'thinking distance'. It is estimated that just one alcoholic drink can increase a driver's thinking distance by up to 20%.

Research shows that a driver who is over the limit will experience one or all of the following when you get behind the wheel:

• You will underestimate the distance and speed of other vehicles on the road.

• Your vision will be affected, slowing your reaction time and You will almost certainly overestimate your ability.