Dynamics behind alcohol consumption, driving

PART 1
The DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE road safety campaign tip has almost become a nursery rhyme, a refrain — a chorus which everyone can recite by rote without actively engaging and interrogating the causes and effects of drunk — driving.
This is the first of a three part series on road safety aimed at informing the public on the dynamics behind alcohol consumption and driving, especially as we approach the festive season. In this column we focus on teenage driver safety as there is a growing population of young drivers in Zimbabwe.
Teenage euphoria leading to dangerous experiments with alcohol and driving.
Psychology advances that teenagers, especially adolescents have high experimental drives. This obviously includes experimenting with alcohol and other drugs. In Zimbabwe alcohol is not to be sold to any persons under the age of 18.
The worrying emergence of teen parties in Zimbabwe, where teens allegedly abuse alcohol and other drugs, goes to show how kids and teens in particular start drinking alcohol sooner than we think.
This genesis of under-age drinking marks the beginning of an extended challenge of under-age drinking and driving. The law of Zimbabwe allows our teens to drive light motor vehicles at 16 years of age, as long as they are duly licensed. Parents / guardians are implored to take full charge of their teenagers and their access to vehicles, to avoid preventable teenage deaths due to road carnage. It is incumbent upon parents to continue to nurture these teens (most of whom would not have reached the legal age of majority of 18) into the culture of road safety. As soon as our teens graduate as drivers, they must train in defensive driving. Further to this, the parents / guardian drivers MUST lead by example.
Defensive driving training is available at the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe offices across the country.
About under age drinking
Alcohol consumption is for adults only. In Zimbabwe — those that are above 18 years of age. People who drink when they are under age do so at a time when they are maturing physically and psychologically. They do so at a time in their lives when they may feel invincible or rebellious or when they are attempting to make a statement about their own independence.
In most countries around the world there are strict laws about the minimum age for purchasing and/or consuming alcohol. These laws are established for good reasons and they should be taken very seriously.
Depending on the circumstances and the country, violating these laws can result in substantial fines, losing your driving license and maybe even jail time. Under age drinking can cause serious problems at home and school. It has social consequences for under age drinkers, too, causing reputational damage and self-esteem issues if behaviour becomes out of control. Young people who drink before their time, and have access to vehicles risk their lives and those of other road users.
Respecting the law, one’s self and each other is paramount.
Take action !
Drinking is simply the wrong thing to do for the under age person. Driving without a licence is unlawful. Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal.
If you’re a parent, know that your children will be influenced by the drinking patterns they see at home. If you drink alcohol in their presence, do so responsibly. When you talk to them about under age drinking, make sure you express your concern and not just your disapproval. Also be responsible on the road and set an example for your children. Do not avail vehicles to teenagers who are below the legal driving age or who are unlicensed.
(Adapted from www.talkingalcohol.com)
Think before you drink before you drive
There are many proven alternatives to the irresponsible and dangerous practice of driving under the influence of alcohol. While they may require a little planning, they may save a life, possibly yours.
Nominate a ‘designated driver’
Take a taxi
Use public transport
Plan to have someone pick you up
Arrange to stay overnight
Getting behind the wheel while intoxicated is not an option — it is irresponsible and it can be deadly.
More tips for young drivers
Do not overload your vehicle with passengers
Avoid loud music and noise in the car, it may distract your attention while driving
Respect other road users
Obey road rules.
For more information on how to deal with underage drinking and driving please visit www.zimpact.org. Zimpact is an organization that serves to raise public awareness in Zimbabwe about the dangers and fatal consequences of drinking and driving and is one of the partners Delta Beverages is working with encourage responsible alcohol consumption.
Keep safe this Holiday and please, Enjoy Responsibly.
This column is brought to your by the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe in partnership with Delta Beverages. For feedback please email [email protected] and [email protected]