Asleep with a DUI?

After a night of drinking, one of the first responses a person may have is to sleep. Since the body needs time to process any amount of alcohol, the number of drinks a person has can create a situation where sleep is the only way to process what was consumed. Unfortunately and too often, a person may decide that his or her car is the perfect spot to sleep off a few drinks before driving home. But, this is rarely the best decision, especially when it comes to a DUI conviction.

Even if a vehicle is not in operation, a person with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of over .08% should not be behind the wheel. In many states, this behavior is probable cause for law enforcement to assume that the person has already driven the vehicle while intoxicated, or, has the intention to drive after drinking. Because of this probable cause and assumption, even a person who had the best of intentions to “sleep it off” can be charged and convicted of DUI. In fact, under these circumstances, the only way to escape a DUI charge could involve a mechanic’s report that a vehicle is absolutely inoperable.

If a person is tired from the effects of alcohol and still manage to get out on the road, there is also a danger that the level of alcohol will cause that person to fall asleep. Falling asleep while driving is a dangerous consequence of drinking too much, and one that can be avoided by simply not attempting to operate the vehicle at all.

Because of the poor judgment of drunk drivers, the laws and assumptions about a person behind the wheel of a vehicle are a safety issue. While it may seem like a good idea to take a nap before driving home, more often than not, a person is still too drunk to drive. If a night of drinking is part of the plan, be sure that plan also includes a safe way home. The cost of a taxi or the favor of a designated driver is the best way to ensure the safety of our streets.