Chapter 14: Effects of Alcohol & Drugs

How Alcohol Affects Riding

• Alcohol slows reaction time — you take longer to respond to hazards.
• Alcohol impairs judgment — you may take unnecessary risks.
• Alcohol reduces coordination — steering, braking, and balance are all affected.
• Alcohol causes blurred vision and difficulty judging distances and speed.
• Even small amounts of alcohol affect your ability to ride safely.

Legal Limits in Malaysia

• The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% (80 mg per 100 ml of blood).
• Even below the legal limit, alcohol affects driving ability and you can still be charged if you ride dangerously.
• P license holders: Zero tolerance — no alcohol at all.

Penalties for Drunk Riding

• First offense: Fine of up to RM2,000 and/or imprisonment up to 6 months.
• Repeat offense: Fine of up to RM4,000 and/or imprisonment up to 12 months.
• License suspension or revocation.
• 20 demerit points under the KEJARA system.
• If an accident causes death while under the influence — imprisonment up to 15 years.

Effects of Drugs on Riding

• Illegal drugs (cannabis, methamphetamine, etc.) severely impair riding ability.
• Prescription medications — some cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slow reactions. Always read medication labels.
• If a medication label warns about operating machinery or driving, do not ride.
• Combining medications with alcohol multiplies the impairing effects.

Fatigue and Drowsy Riding

• Fatigue is as dangerous as drunk riding — it causes microsleeps and slow reactions.
• Signs of fatigue: frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting across lanes, difficulty concentrating.
• If tired: stop and rest. Do not rely on coffee, loud music, or opening windows.
• Plan long journeys with regular rest breaks — at least every 2 hours.

Motorcycle-Specific Risks

• Balance is critical on a motorcycle — alcohol destroys your sense of balance.
• A car may stay on the road even if the driver is impaired, but a motorcycle will fall.
• Never ride a motorcycle after consuming alcohol — the consequences are even more severe on two wheels.