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How many drinks results in illegal blood alcohol content?

On Behalf of | Oct 6, 2020 | DUI |

Georgia imposes charges of driving under the influence when a motorist has a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher (0.02% for a minor). Given that information, many people wonder if any amount of alcohol is safe to drink before driving. 

Review the facts about blood alcohol content and driving to keep yourself and others safe on the road. 

What does BAC mean?

This test measures the amount of alcohol in a person’s bloodstream. For example, measured BAC of 0.10% indicates that for every 1,000 parts blood, the person’s bloodstream has one part alcohol. 

What factors affect BAC? 

Because so many factors influence a person’s BAC, it is almost impossible to predict how many drinks will result in an illegal breath test. Some of these factors include: 

  • The number of drinks the person had, measured as either a 1.5-oz shot of liquor, 5-oz glass of wine or 12-oz beer 
  • The number of hours over which he or she consumed the drinks 
  • Gender 
  • Body mass index 
  • Medications the person takes 
  • Recent food intake 

What happens as BAC increases? 

At a blood alcohol content of about 0.08%, an individual will begin to show impaired control, vision, speech and balance. However, reasoning impairment and drowsiness can start as low as 0.03% BAC, so those who plan to drink any amount of alcohol should plan to call for a ride. 

For many people, a DUI arrest signifies the development of substance use disorder. Individuals who receive a DUI conviction in Georgia must complete a DUI risk reduction program, which includes screening for alcoholism and the chance to pursue medical treatment. 

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