Alcohol is a widely consumed substance that can have both short-term and long-term effects on the body. As a DUI lawyer, it is important to understand the physiology of alcohol in order to effectively represent clients who have been charged with drunk driving.
Alcohol Consumption: Immediate Effects
When alcohol is consumed, it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain. Which is where, and why, it impacts various functions such as motor coordination and judgment. As the level of alcohol in the blood increases, these functions become increasingly impaired. This is why individuals who have been drinking may struggle with tasks such as driving or walking in a straight line.
Alcohol Consumption: Long-Term Effects
In addition to the immediate effects of alcohol, excessive drinking over time can lead to a number of serious health consequences. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), heavy drinking can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, liver disease, and heart disease. It can also lead to brain damage, which can manifest as memory loss, difficulty with coordination and balance, and problems with thinking and problem-solving.
Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by recurrent alcohol use despite negative consequences. Individuals with AUD may also experience co-occurring psychiatric conditions, such as depression or anxiety. The NIAAA states that individuals with AUD are more likely to have a co-occurring mental health disorder. This highlights the need for comprehensive treatment that addresses both the alcohol use disorder and any underlying psychiatric conditions.
It’s vital for DUI lawyers to recognize that individuals who have been charged with drunk driving may be struggling with AUD or other underlying mental health conditions. In some cases, treatment for these conditions may be a more appropriate course of action than punishment.
It is also important to note that alcohol affects not only the brain and cognitive function but also the liver, pancreas, heart, and other organs and systems, leading to serious health consequences. Individuals who have been charged with drunk driving should understand the serious short and long-term consequences that alcohol can have on their bodies.
Contact a Reputable DUI Lawyer
In summary, DUI lawyers must acknowledge the psychiatry of alcohol and the effects it can have on the body to help clients in and out of the courtroom. It is crucial that individuals with alcohol-related issues receive comprehensive treatment and support. Also, it’s important that the legal system takes this into consideration.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI, you can contact one of our expert lawyers at Dale Carson Law. We can review your case and discuss options. Call us 24/7 at 904-355-6777.
References:
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2019). Alcohol Use Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-use-disorders.
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2018). Alcohol’s Effects on the Body. Retrieved from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body