Sleep Deprivation vs Alcohol: 17-19 Hours Awake Equals 0.05 BAC
Is Being Sleep Deprived Like Being Drunk?
Yes, and the numbers are clear. In this peer reviewed study, after 17 to 19 hours without sleep, people performed on some tasks as poorly as they did at 0.05 percent blood alcohol. With longer wakefulness, impairment matched about 0.10 percent. That is why sleep deprivation vs alcohol is a fair comparison for driving risk and motor performance.
Dr. Kumar’s Take
Most people underestimate how fast fatigue cripples reaction time and judgment. This trial shows that a long day awake can push you into the same danger zone as drinking. If you must drive or operate equipment at night, plan sleep first, use a real break, and avoid the “I feel fine” trap. Your brain may not be fine.