You should not have to worry that a drunk driver will hit you on the road and inflict serious injuries on you. Unfortunately, some drivers fail to recognize that they are too drunk to get behind the wheel. They may not understand how long it takes to sober up.
Psychology Today explains some basic facts to help people understand what speeds up or slows down the processing of alcohol through the human body.
Processing a standard drink
The general rule is that a person absorbs and gets rid of one standard drink of alcohol in a two-hour period. A single standard drink consists of a drink with a pure alcohol amount of 0.6 fluid ounces.
Depending on the alcohol by volume, some beverages need more or less alcohol to qualify as a standard drink. If the ABV is higher, the drink amount can be smaller to be a standard drink.
Factors affecting alcohol processing
There are many reasons why it could take longer to pass alcohol through your body. Many bars and restaurants serve a glass of alcohol that contains multiple standard drinks, adding more time for your body to process the alcohol.
Eating a meal can also be a factor. Due to the food in your stomach, the alcohol in your system cannot absorb into your bloodstream as quickly.
Be responsible with drinking
People have differing levels of tolerance to alcohol. As a result, some motorists take longer to sober up. It is important to know your limits when it comes to alcoholic beverages so you know not to get behind the wheel.
Given how devastating a drunk driving accident can be, you want to do everything possible to make sure you are not the responsible party.