12-29-09

Alcohol and Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol kills more than 13,000 people in the United States annually.  And long-term consumption of heavy alcohol use can cause serious health conditions.

Each year, in Illinois there are more than 600 deaths due to alcohol-related accidents.  Ronald Kanwischer, assistant professor of psychiatry and a substance abuse counselor at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, explains the alcohol level at which drivers are considered intoxicated.

SOUND BITE:  TR 1 (1:00 – 1:20)  “In Illinois as in many states, we have lowered that to .08.  And, we believe that is the level where the majority of people show impairment in their ability to operate a vehicle.  Now for the average man, that might take about four drinks.  For a woman, it takes a little less.”

Kanwischer says there are serious legal and medical consequences to consuming alcohol and for driving under the influence.  The most serious charges can carry a substantial fine.  If the driver hurts another person, they can be sentenced to jail or even lose their license.  Long-term heavy alcohol use can cause health conditions such as cancer and liver failure.  He advises people to be mindful about drinking.

SOUND BITE:  TR 1 (6:28 – 6:45)  “So, before you go to the party think about what your limits might want to be.  One way to deal with that is slow down your drinking.  We know that people metabolize alcohol at one drink per hour, so think about drinking only one drink per hour.  Eat something before you go and while you’re at the party.” 

Kanwischer says cheese and crackers are the best choices to absorb the alcohol.  He urges people to celebrate responsibly.  If someone has a drinking problem, they should see their primary care physician or mental health counselor.

This is Ruth Slottag at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.