What’s All the Buzz About Drinking & Driving?
The legal limit when driving is currently 0.08% BAC in most states, although impairment in driving begins when you deviate from 0.00% BAC (blood alcohol content) at all.
- At 0.02% BAC, drivers have impairment of at least one driving skill.
- At 0.08% BAC, drivers have significant driving skill impairment.
Driving skill impairment includes:
- slower reaction time,
- decreased ability to keep an automobile in a steady position with traffic lane dividers,
- poorer concentration,
- decreased ability to divide their attention across multiple tasks,
- slower information processing, and
- decreased visual function.
Use this tool to calculate your BAC.
The CDC provides these tips:
- Designate a nondrinking driver before any party or celebration begins. Remind others to do the same.
- Don’t drink and drive. Get a ride home from a sober friend or get a taxi or ride service.
- Take the keys. Don’t let someone else drink and drive.
- If you’re hosting a party where alcohol will be served, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver, offer alcohol-free beverages, and make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.
- Buckle up every time. It’s your best defense against a drunk driver.