Sobering up fast is sometimes the number one priority a driver has. Maybe they are out at a friend’s for lunch, with nowhere to be until tomorrow, when an employee calls and tells them they need to get to their workplace fast. Maybe they realize time has flown at the bar and they need to get home and should have stopped drinking sooner.
In circumstances like this, people often turn to tricks they have heard of to sober up. Maybe they are feeling a little tipsy and want to feel more alert before turning the key in the ignition, or perhaps they think they can drive fine, but just don’t want to risk testing over the limit if stopped by the police. Here are two common “sobering-up” myths that people too often believe.
Drinking a caffeinated beverage
The caffeine found in coffee and energy drinks can certainly make a person feel more alert. However, it will do nothing to sober them up any faster.
Cold water
If someone were at home, they might take a cold shower. If they are elsewhere, they might just splash some cold water on their face. The cold water can help a person feel more alert. However, it will not affect a person’s sobriety.
How can you sober up?
Sobering up can be done in one way alone – giving your body time to process the alcohol in your system. As the rate of alcohol processing is pretty standard, there is really nothing you can do to sober up faster. All you can do is delay getting behind the wheel.
If you can’t do that, then it’s better to admit you cannot drive and make alternative arrangements to get where you need to go. If it’s too late for that and you’re facing a drunk driving charge, it’s smart to get legal guidance as soon as possible.