Introduction to coffee while driving
Coffee is a staple part of the average morning routine, with many Australians relying on a steaming cup of coffee to get them energised and ready for the day. But is drinking coffee while driving illegal in Australia? The short answer to this question is no. In Australia, it is not illegal to drink coffee while driving as long as you do not put the safety of other people at risk in the process, nor cause an accident and obstruction on the road.
Safety Concerns over Drinking Coffee While Driving
Even though drinking coffee while driving is not in itself illegal, it could potentially become dangerous. Paying attention to the road and your surroundings is of utmost importance if you are operating a vehicle, whether you are the driver or a passenger. Taking your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel even for a few seconds can be extremely risky and put yourself and others in potential danger.
What experts say
According to traffic safety experts, any distraction while driving is considered dangerous. A cup of coffee can be distracting as it means you are taking your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel while driving. Other distractions associated with drinking coffee while driving can include using a travel mug, trying to reach the cup holder, twisting to drink the coffee or fiddling around with the lid. All of these activities can be distraction and are considered dangerous by safety experts.
Risks Involved with Drinking Coffee While Driving
Another concern for those choosing to drink coffee while driving is that it increases the risk of being involved in an accident due to the effects of caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant, and as such can provide a false sense of alertness and energy, leading to overconfidence and riskier behaviours in a driving situation.
It is also easy to spill coffee in the car, which could then lead to distractions such as searching for a cloth to clean it up, or worse, having to clean it up while the vehicle is still moving. This can be extremely dangerous and could lead to a crash.
Penalties Involved with Drinking Coffee While Driving
If a person is caught drinking coffee while driving, they could incur a penalty. Depending on the state, penalties may include a verbal warning, a fine and/or demerit points on your license. In extreme cases, a person found drinking and driving coffee may face charges of negligent or reckless driving and may incur harsher penalties such as losing their license.
Alternatives to Drinking Coffee While Driving
The best way to enjoy a cup of coffee while getting from one destination to another is to either drink it before getting in the car, or find a safe place to stop, such as a cafe or parking lot, and take a few minutes to enjoy the coffee rather than doing it while driving. If you are travelling with a passenger, having them hand the coffee to you while you are driving eliminates the risk of spilling the drink, but it is still important not to take your eyes off the road for too long.
Forward Planning
If you are the sort of person who needs a cup of coffee in the morning before you can function, it is best to plan ahead and have the coffee before you start your journey. This eliminates the risk of reaching your destination awoken, but it can also prevent heavy lines at the cafe and save you precious time.
Social Pressure
When faced with peer pressure to drink coffee while driving, it is important to remember that safety is the top priority when on the road, and therefore the safest approach is to avoid drinking coffee while driving, or to opt for another beverage such as water or a decaffeinated alternative.
Impairment
Finally, it is important to remember that even small amounts of caffeine can impair cognitive function, so it is important not to overestimate your abilities. There is no ‘safe’ level of impairment when it comes to driving, and even a small amount of caffeine can impair your judgment and make you more likely to make mistakes while driving.
