Sobering Up: Fact and Fiction
There is a lot of misinformation about how to handle intoxication. While there are many things that inebriated individuals can do to feel better or reduce the possibility of a hangover, there really is not anything that can be done to accelerate the process of lowering the level of one’s blood alcohol concentration.
Common Myths
Almost as soon as people are exposed to alcohol, they are likely to hear about various methods to sober up in a hurry. While some of these methods might make you feel better, they do not bring an individual any closer to being able to drive legally. Also, some of these techniques may be dangerous, as they might make you feel more alert momentarily, but your reaction times and sensory input could still be seriously impaired. Some of the common myths about sobering up include:
- Exercise: There are claims that doing activities that cause you to break into a sweat help purge your system, as you will sweat out alcohol. This does not actually occur, and exercising can be dangerous, as it could lead to further dehydration.
- Eating: Suggestions include eating bread or other absorbent foods, the idea being that these foods will soak up the alcohol, which is incorrect.
- Drinking Coffee: Caffeine or other stimulants are often suggested, but while these may make someone feel more alert, they can mask the effects of alcohol, and they do not actually cause the alcohol to be processed faster.
There are many other myths about sobering up, but the only thing that actually helps is time. Wait a minimum of 45 minutes per serving of alcohol consumed before driving, and know that your wait may be longer. Also, do not forget that some drinks have more than one serving of alcohol. And of course, the safest choice is to have a designated driver or to take a taxi.
Contact Us
If you have been charged with DWI or another alcohol-related charge, contact the San Antonio DWI defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Chris S. Barnett by calling 210-587-6464 today.
