There is no way around this. Driving while intoxicated is dangerous and drivers with high blood alcohol content (BAC) are at an increased risk of car accidents,injuries, and vehicular deaths. These incidences are preventable.
Impairment does begin with the first drink. Gender, body weight, the number of drinks consumed, and the amount of food consumed affects the body’s ability to handle alcohol. Two or three beers consumed in an hour can make some people legally intoxicated while it may be a wash for others. Women, younger individuals, and smaller people tend to become impaired with less alcohol. There is no quick method to become sober. The best method is to patiently wait until the body absorbs the alcohol. The average rate that an individual processes alcohol is approximately one drink per hour.
BAC tends to be measured as a percentage of alcohol in the blood by weight. However, within a jurisdiction driving while consuming alcohol may be illegal automatically. In some jurisdictions an open alcohol container in a passenger’s compartment or any specific compartment is illegal. The driver does not have to convince the officer that they were not drinking. In case of an accident, insurance may be automatically declared invalid, as such; the drunk driver is responsible for all damages. Citation for driving under the influence will cause major spike in car insurance premiums within the United States. In BAC incidences if stopped, a driver is required to show their driver’s license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration. If they refuse to take a blood or breath test, their driver’s license will be automatically suspended for 180 days.
Punishments for Driving under the Influence (DUI) incidences in the States vary depending on the number of convictions:
First Offense
• A fine of up to $2000
• 3-180 days in jail
• Loss of the driver’s license up to a year
• Annual fee of $1000 plus for three years to retain their driver’s license
Second Offense
• A fine of $4000
• One month to a year in jail
• Loss of their driver’s license for up to two years
• Annual fee of $1000, $1,500 or $2,000 for three years to retain their driver’s license
Third Offense
• A $10,000 fine
• Two to ten years in prison
• Loss of their driver’s license up to two years
• Annual fee of $1,000, $1,500 or $2,000 for three years to retain their driver’s license
After two or more convictions within a five year time frame, one must install a specific switch that prevents the vehicle from functioning after drinking. Some countries simply fine the individual heavily and are given a lengthy prison sentence.
DUI courts in the States have been proven effective in reducing the drunken driving crime. These courts strongly enforce mandatory jail sentences and alcohol programs that have to be completed. One can stay safe by designating a driver, call a cab, and avoid driving all together. Avoid drinking and driving.