As the dog days of summer continue many people participate in events such as weddings, barbeques, graduation parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthday parties, wedding showers, baseball games, and golf outings. The common denominator with all these events is the presence and consumption of alcoholic beverages. People need to know at what point to refrain from driving to protect themselves and the people around them.
A person’s Blood Alcohol content (“BAC”) is the ratio of alcohol to blood in the bloodstream. It is important to remember that in the state of Michigan a BAC of .08 percent is considered legally drunk. In addition, a minor under 21 years of age with a BAC of .02 percent may be charged with a zero tolerance drinking and driving violation. As of October 31, 2010, a BAC of .17 percent or greater will support a “Super Drunk” charge which enhances punishment significantly.
Please remember that this is simply a guide to help estimate a person’s BAC. If you have been drinking and feel at all inebriated please refrain from driving regardless of what the following rules and chart below say. Also, be aware that factors such as age, physical condition, food/water intake, and other factors play a role in determining one’s BAC.
How to Determine your BAC:
1. Count your drinks (1 drink = 1 oz. 100-proof liquor, 1 five oz. glass of table wine or a 12 oz. beer)
2. Use the chart below and under the number of drinks and opposite body weight find the percent of BAC.
3. Subtract from this number the percent of alcohol processed by your body during the time elapsed since your first drink. This is approximately .015 per hour.
For example, if a 200 pound man consumed 8 drinks in 4 hours his BAC would be .09 and still legally drunk.
*200 lb. man + 8 drinks/4 hours = .150 minus (0.015 x 4 = .060)
*.150 minus .060 = .09 BAC (Legally Drunk)
Again, please refrain from driving while intoxicated at all costs. If you have any questions pertaining to BAC or need representation do not hesitate to contact me.
