Should You Drive?

At least 1 hour has passed since your last drink

Your liver processes roughly one standard drink per hour — time is the only thing that sobers you

Fewer than 2 standard drinks consumed

Even small amounts of alcohol impair reaction time and judgment — less is always safer

Ate a meal while drinking

Food slows alcohol absorption, but it does not reduce your BAC — you can still be impaired

Drank water between alcoholic drinks

Alternating water with alcohol helps pace your intake and supports hydration

Not taking any medications that interact with alcohol

Many common medications (antihistamines, painkillers, antidepressants) amplify alcohol's effects

Feel genuinely sober and clear-headed

Self-assessment can be unreliable — even if you feel fine, your reaction time may still be impaired

Not feeling drowsy or fatigued

Fatigue impairs driving as much as a BAC of 0.05% — drowsy driving is extremely dangerous

Considered alternative transportation options

Rideshare, public transit, a designated driver, or staying put are always safer choices when in doubt