under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs

under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs

Phrase as used in statutes or ordinances prohibiting the operation of motor vehicle by a party under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs covers not only all well-known and easily recognized conditions and degrees of intoxication, but any abnormal mental or physical condition which is the result of indulging in any degree in intoxicating liquors or drugs, and which tends to deprive one of that clearness of intellect and control of himself which he would otherwise possess. Any condition where intoxicating liquor or drugs has so far affected the nervous system, brain or muscles of the driver as to impair, to an appreciable degree, his ability to operate a motor vehicle in the manner that an ordinary, prudent and cautious man, in full possession of his faculties, using reasonable care, would operate or drive under like conditions. Luellen v. State, 64 Okl.Cr. 382, 81 P.2d 323, 328.

A condition that makes a person less able, either mentally or physically, or both, to exercise clear judgment, and with steady hands and nerves, to operate an automobile with safety to himself and to the public. Village of Park Forest v. Angel, 37 Ill.App.3d 746, 347 N.E.2d 278, 285.

See also intoxication