Chapter 15: Effects of Alcohol & Drugs

How Alcohol Affects Driving

• Alcohol slows reaction time — you take longer to respond to hazards
• Alcohol impairs judgment — you may take risks you would normally avoid
• Alcohol reduces coordination — steering, braking, and gear changes become less precise
• Alcohol affects vision — blurred vision, poor depth perception, and reduced peripheral vision
• Alcohol creates a false sense of confidence — you may feel capable even when you are impaired

Legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits

• CDL holders: Maximum BAC of 0.08% (80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood)
• P license holders: BAC must be 0% — absolute zero tolerance
• Even below the legal limit, alcohol affects your driving ability — the safest option is to not drink at all before driving

Penalties for Drink Driving

• Fine of up to RM2,000
• Imprisonment of up to 12 months
• License suspension or revocation
• 20 demerit points under the KEJARA system
• Repeat offenders face heavier penalties

Effects of Drugs on Driving

• Illegal drugs (marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc.) severely impair driving ability and are a criminal offense
• Prescription medications can also impair driving — always read warning labels on medication
• Medications that cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision should not be taken before driving
• If in doubt, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether it is safe to drive while taking the medication

Fatigue and Drowsy Driving

• Fatigue is as dangerous as drunk driving — it slows reaction time and impairs judgment
• Signs of fatigue: frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting between lanes, difficulty focusing, missing exits
• If you feel tired while driving: stop at a rest area and take a nap (at least 15–20 minutes)
• Do not rely on coffee, energy drinks, or loud music alone to stay awake — these are only temporary fixes

Planning Long Journeys

• Plan regular rest stops — take a break every 2 hours of driving
• Share driving duties with another licensed driver if possible
• Avoid driving during hours when you would normally be sleeping
• Get a full night of sleep before a long journey