A Guide to BAC and DUI

Laws concerning DUI (Driving Under the Influence) vary from state to state. In all states in the US, it is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol. If a driver has a certain concentration of alcohol in their bloodstream, they will be found guilty.

Every state’s accepted blood alcohol level is 0.08 percent, except for Utah, which accepts 0.05 percent. Any driver with a record blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of about 0.08 percent or higher will be guilty.

“DUI cases are complicated and can come with life-altering repercussions. Driving privileges, fines, jail time, and probation are possible outcomes of DUI charges,” says DUI lawyer Ryan McPhie.

What Do Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Levels Mean?

Blood alcohol content (BAC) or blood alcohol level refers to the amount of alcohol in the blood. Different factors determine the concentration of alcohol in a person’s bloodstream. The main factor, however, is the amount of alcohol consumed and during what period.

Scientifically, blood concentrations rise when you drink a lot of alcohol within a short time. Major blood alcohol concentration levels and their implications include:

• BAC Of 0.02 Percent

At this concentration level, mood and judgment are affected somewhat.

• BAC Of 0.05 Percent

At this level, more filters come off, and a person’s behavior can become exaggerated and more obvious. The effects may show no coordination and muscle control.

• BAC Of 0.08 Percent

Processing speed slows down sufficiently. Perception and coordination are impaired, making reaction times slower.

When two persons consume the same alcohol, their BAC readings may differ. This is because blood alcohol concentrations are influenced by individual variances and the environment where alcohol is consumed. Body size and composition, consumption time, hormone levels, medication, and type of drink can also affect BAC levels.

When Can A BAC Lead To A DUI Conviction?

Statistics show that 67 percent of alcohol-impaired driving fatalities in 2020 involved at least one driver with a BAC at or over 0.15 percent. In most states, having a BAC of 0.15 percent or higher will lead to severe penalties. This is because high blood alcohol concentration and road deaths are strongly correlated.

Here are the impairments associated with a BAC of 0.15 percent or above:

• BAC Of 0.15 Percent

The person will experience trouble walking and talking due to a severe loss of muscle control. Judgment and decision-making will become unreliable.

• BAC Of 0.16-0.20 Percent

The person will experience confusion and uncontrolled movements. They may have feelings of being dizzy or sick.

• BAC Of 0.21-0.30 Percent

They may experience repeated falling and need assistance to stand. Blackouts and vomiting are also commonly associated symptoms.

• BAC Of 0.31-0.40 Percent

In this state, people are very close to the lethal concentration of blood alcohol. They may lose consciousness, go into a coma, and death can even follow.

DUI Charges In Some States

Three states in 2020 recorded the most traffic fatalities where blood alcohol concentration was 0.15 percent or higher. The states are Texas (1,018), California (765), and Florida (571). Rhode Island (67) recorded the highest percentage (30 percent) of high BAC traffic fatalities.

Due to the data, these states have stronger punishments for drivers convicted of having a high BAC. Texas, California, Florida, and Rhode Island have higher penalties for driving with a BAC of 0.15 percent or higher. These fines include longer jail time, increased times, and suspension of driver’s licenses.

Conclusion

Blood alcohol content determines whether you can drive legally or not. States in the US have fixed BAC levels that should not be exceeded. A driver found driving with a high BAC might face the risk of charges.

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