Blood alcohol level (BAC) is the amount of alcohol in your blood that develops from drinking beverages that contain alcohol. BAC is measured as a percentage of alcohol in the blood, and it can range from 0% (no alcohol) to over 0.4% (a potentially fatal level) . As an individual’s BAC increases, so do their impairments. The effects of alcohol intoxication can vary based on several factors, including the amount of alcohol consumed, the rate of consumption, and the individuals body weight, gender, and tolerance to alcohol. The following are predictable effects we’d expect to see at different BAC levels for a drinker who has not developed tolerance:
- 0.02-0.04%: Light to moderate drinkers begin to feel some effects.
- 0.04-0.06%: Most people begin to feel relaxed.
- 0.06-0.08%: Judgment is somewhat impaired.
- 0.08-0.10%: Definite impairment of muscle coordination and driving skills. This is the legal intoxication level in most states.
- 0.10-0.12%: Clear deterioration of reaction time and control. This is legally drunk in all states.
- 0.12-0.15%: Vomiting usually occurs.
- 0.15-0.20%: Balance and movement are impaired. Here the equivalent of a 1/2 pint of whiskey is circulating in the bloodstream.
- 0.20-0.30%: Most people begin to experience blackouts.
- 0.30-0.40%: Many people lose consciousness.
- 0.40% and over: Breathing stops. This is a fatal dose for most people.
It is important to note that these effects are not universal and can vary depending on the individual. Additionally, tolerance to alcohol can develop over time, which means that an individual may not feel the same physical and mental effects of alcohol drinking the same amount they used to drink.
