Drinking and Driving: Learning Your Limit

Most people fear being pulled over by the police. No doubt it is an anxiety-inducing time when you have a cop that pulls you over. This can be even worse if you are pulled over under suspicion of a DUI. DUIs carry heavy penalties and fines. You can wind up spending time in jail, especially if you are in an accident while drinking and driving. Here is what you need to know about DUI limits and how to know if you have reached it.

What to Know About DUI Limits

The blood alcohol concentration limit exists to keep you and other drivers safe. If you are at or above the legal limit, you will have a slower reaction time and will more likely cause an accident. The legal limit in the U.S. is .08 percent. If you surpass this and are pulled over, then you will face DUI charges. Most often, cops will use a breathalyzer test that will tell them your blood alcohol concentration. In addition, you will be asked to perform physical tests.

How to Know You Exceeded the Limit

Your personal limit may be difficult to judge, especially since you don’t have a test for your blood alcohol concentration. When it comes to individual people, there are some standards that you can follow. These standards judge based on body weight. For instance, if you are 100 pounds, then you can consume about three drinks in one hour to reach the legal limit. A person at 220 pounds would need to consume six of those drinks.

You need to consider a lot of factors when it comes to drinking and potentially driving. Even if you have a little alcohol in your system, you may feel fine, but could have a slower reaction time. In general, it is best to have a designated driver, no matter how much you drink. If you consume energy drinks with alcohol, you will want to be even more careful. The caffeine can make you feel sober, when in reality you are not.When it comes to a DUI, it is always best to play it safe. If you were recently charged with a DUI, you could be facing serious charges. These charges can lead to fines, jail time and can even suspend your license. If you are facing DUI charges, set up a consultation with a DUI lawyer, like from Morales Law Firm, as soon as possible to find out what your options are.