Your BAC May Be Higher Than You Think - Here's Why

 Posted on July 20, 2017 in DUI

Your blood alcohol concentration, or BAC, is a measurement of the amount of alcohol in your blood stream. It is also what states use to create legal driving limits. For Illinois, that legal limit is 0.08 percent for most drivers, 0.04 percent for commercial drivers, and 0.00 percent for anyone under the age of 21. Unfortunately, few drivers know their actual BAC before they get behind the wheel. Instead, most use their judgment to determine when they are sober enough to drive. Learn why it may not be enough to avoid criminal DUI charges.

Factors that Determine BAC As a general rule, the body can metabolize about one drink per hour (12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor). However, several factors can change the rate. For example, women often metabolize alcohol slower than men. Genetics and your weight can also have an impact, as can the health of your liver. The amount you drink and the speed at which you drink are also determining factors. The contents of your stomach – particularly the amount of food you eat before drinking – can also affect your body's alcohol metabolism rate. Even more perplexing is that the body may metabolize alcohol faster one day, but slower another. Peak BAC times, which can range anywhere from minutes to hours, may also change, depending on your body's metabolic rate for that day. In short, it can be difficult to determine your BAC formulaically. As such, it is encouraged that you avoid trying to guess your BAC and, instead, choose to play it safe after a night out with friends, family, co-workers, or others. Your BAC and Driving If you plan on drinking, it is advised that you assign a designated driver, call a rideshare, or take public transit. However, you can also stop drinking at a specific time and then wait for yourself to sober up. Keep in mind that this option is rarely your best option, and it should only be used if you plan on only drinking a small amount - no more than one or two drinks over several hours, especially since it could take a minimum of two hours to metabolize two drinks (possibly more). Anything more and it might be better if you find an alternative form of transportation. Driving While Under the Influence Unfortunately, some people are not aware of how their body metabolizes alcohol, or it may metabolize it differently than it usually does. Others may assume they have sobered up enough to drive, but end up being wrong. In either case, the driver may be at risk for a DUI charge. If one happens to you or someone you love, know your rights – particularly your rights to remain silent and your right to obtain legal counsel. The Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C. have your best interest in mind. Dedicated and experienced, our Plainfield DUI defense lawyers will protect your rights and aggressively pursue the most favorable outcome in your case. Learn more about how we can assist with your DUI charges. Call 815-733-5350 and schedule your personalized consultation today. Sources:

http://mapi.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/saywhen/know-the-facts/alcohol-and-driving-blood-alcohol-concentration

https://www.usi.edu/rfw/aod/know-the-facts-alcohol/