If authorities in Texas or any other state believe that you are driving in an unsafe manner, they may initiate a traffic stop. During the traffic stop, a police officer may perform tests to determine if you are driving while under the influence of alcohol. Generally speaking, you can be charged with DUI if your blood alcohol content, or BAC, is .08% or greater.
Many factors influence your level of impairment
Medication or an empty stomach could play a role in how alcohol impairs your ability to drive. Your weight and gender could also determine how much you can drink before losing control over your thoughts and actions. Consuming drinks that are high in alcohol content or consuming many drinks in a short period of time can also quickly raise your BAC. Generally speaking, a woman’s BAC will be higher than a man’s even if they drink the same amount over a similar amount of time.
How alcohol impacts your ability to drive
When your BAC hits .08%, you will likely have a slower reaction time and have difficulty speaking or standing. You will also exhibit poor self-control and a reduced ability to maintain a safe speed while driving. As your BAC climbs higher, you lose the ability to brake or keep your vehicle in the proper lane. If your blood alcohol content reaches .15%, there is an increased chance of vomiting or losing consciousness.
You may underestimate your level of impairment
Generally speaking, people aren’t great at estimating how much alcohol they have consumed. Furthermore, it is possible to be impaired even if you have only had one drink. Therefore, be sure to exercise caution if you plan on driving after consuming any amount of liquor, wine or beer.
If you have been charged with a DUI, you are generally entitled to have an attorney help with your case. He or she may be able to negotiate a plea that allows you to avoid jail time, a fine or a potential loss of future driving privileges.