Drivers fail to appreciate the higher risks
The conclusion of the study was that, even though drivers felt that they were making allowances for possible lack of concentration, they were still not compensating for this lack of concentration sufficiently to avoid a possible accident. The statement was made that "The results of our experiment strongly indicate that eating or drinking while driving increases the risk of a crash."
"Drivers may not perceive the risk to be any higher than other menial in-car tasks, but the impaired reactions combined with the increased workload suggest drivers should exert caution." So that is the final verdict, whatever the feelings and confidence of the driver.
The law is quite clear when it comes to the offence of Driving without due care and attention. Your licence will be endorsed if you are convicted of this offence and the penalty point range is 3 to 9.
Is it worth skimping on maintenance costs if you're going to risk the long arm of the law in the event of an accident, whilst at the same time suffering potential injury and the costs of vehicle repairs?