Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)

When does the law consider a driver “intoxicated”?

The government has set legal limits of Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) for drivers. Simply put, this is the level of alcohol in ones bloodstream. In most states a BAC of .08 or higher is illegal for motorists and reason to make an arrest. Commercial drivers and those under 21 may be subject to a lower legal limit such as .06 or .04; sometimes even an insignificant amount is reason enough for license suspension.

How many drinks does it take to reach .08?

There are a lot of variables to consider. Weight is one of the major factors. It may take more drinks for a larger individual to reach a BAC of .08 than someone weighing less. The proof or strength of alcohol is also a major factor. Also, even though an individual has an elevated BAC percentage they may not actually be intoxicated. Some people are more conditioned to heavy alcohol drinking and therefore less affected by an illegal level of BAC. So even if you do not feel intoxicated, after a few drinks you may have an illegal BAC.

In order for law enforcement to attempt judgment on a driver’s blood alcohol content there are a number of tests. Field Sobriety Tests (FST) requires suspects to perform physical actions while the officer looks for any deviation. Chemical testing involves the driver submitting a sample of urine, blood, or breath for examination. This is generally more accurate than FST since there is no physical expectation, but these tests must still be administered with care. Often times the subject can request the test be taken by a doctor or facility of their choice within reason.

I was arrested for drunk driving. What now?

If you or a family member has been cited for drunk driving it is not a charge to take lightly. This is a serious charge that needs to be taken seriously. Your job, money, driving privileges, traveling, and freedom are all at stake. DUI attorneys handle cases like yours every single day. Let a seasoned DUI lawyer near you take a look at your circumstance and get your life back on track before it’s too late.