Giorgos Papadakis, “The impact of alcohol consumption on driving in rural roads using a driving simulator”, Diploma Thesis, NTUA, School of Civil Engineering, Athens, March 2025.

The present thesis examines the effect of alcohol consumption on driving behavior on rural roads, focusing on changes in critical parameters such as average speed, reaction time, average distance from the preceding vehicle, and accident probability. Driving under the influence of alcohol is one of the most significant risk factors for traffic accidents, affecting both the cognitive and motor skills of the driver. To investigate this effect, a driving simulation experiment was conducted with 35 drivers of different characteristics, who were required to drive under varying blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels of 0%, 0,03%, 0.06%, and 0.09% to record variations in their driving behavior. Additionally, data were collected through questionnaires, including demographic characteristics, driving habits, and perceptions regarding alcohol-impaired driving. Data analysis was performed using statistical and mathematical models, such as linear regression and binary logistic regression, revealing that increased BAC leads to a longer reaction time, higher accident probability, and reduced ability to maintain a safe distance from the preceding vehicle. Furthermore, findings indicated that as alcohol levels in the body rise, the driver’s reaction time to sudden events significantly increases, thereby elevating the risk of an accident. This research provides valuable insights that can be used to strengthen road safety policies through stricter legislation, increased enforcement measures, and the promotion of educational awareness programs for drivers. Overall, the results confirm the significant impact of alcohol consumption on driving safety and emphasize the necessity of additional preventive measures.