Surely one little “drink” is not a problem? In chemical terms, alcohol is a “depressant” i.e. it depresses a number of functions of your brain and nervous system. The first alcoholic drink is very quickly absorbed by the body and will, almost immediately, start to affect the parts of your brain which control inhibitions, concentration, willpower and self-control. Socially, these effects are, generally, considered good but not so when you drive a car or ride a motorbike. That first drink or two also starts to affect your “fine motor skills” – your ability to control your hands and fingers to carry out detailed tasks. It also affects your vision as the background becomes blurred as does your peripheral vision and you become less able to focus on what is happening around you and more focussed on what is just immediately in front of you. Theses affects can be very pleasant but how compatible are they with driving a car etc? Firstly, your increased self-confidence will make you think that you’re a better driver than you are
J.T.Cycles The Cycle Repair Centre
All All general general servicing servicing and and repairs repairs Front and rear suspension servicing (including electric and folding bikes) makes) (all makes) Suspension(all Servicing Disc brake servicing (all makes) Wheel building Frame repairs
No job too small!
01353 667627
jerryjtcycles@hotmail.com
Unit 1b Century Park, Lynn Road, Chettisham, Ely, CB6 1SA
26 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com
and that you’ll actually drive better than when completely sober. Second, your depressed visual acuity and motor skills will, generally, reduce your ability to operate the car’s controls and properly assess what you are seeing. Thirdly, your lowered inhibitions will make you less likely to refuse to drive and more likely to confidently get in your car and encourage other people to join you. These affects can occur after consumption of quite small quantities of alcohol – sometimes well below the legal drink-drive limit. So, it is important to remember than even if you’re legally allowed to drive after one drink your ability to drive will still be impaired to a degree. In conclusion, DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE. This issues top tip: Be visible to other road users – motorists, use dipped headlights in poor visibility (daylight running lights do not show lights to the rear) – motorcyclists, use dipped headlights in all conditions and wear Hi-Vis jackets – cyclists, wear Hi-Vis waistcoats and use flashing lights – dog walkers and pedestrians, wear Hi-Vis waistcoats when using unlit roads and in poor weather. BE SEEN, BE SAFE.
Tig-a-Tack Tig Welding Service
Specialising in:Aluminium Stainless steel Steel etc.
Qualified City & Guilds Level II
Repairs and prototype work undertaken
Sub-contract jobs
01353 667627
jerryjtcycles@hotmail.com
Unit 1b Century Park, Lynn Road, Chettisham, Ely, CB6 1SA