The amount of alcohol in a person's body is measured by the weight of the alcohol in a certain volume of blood. This is called the blood alcohol concentration or BAC which is a measurement expressed as grams per deciliter (g/dL) of blood. With each drink consumed, a person's BAC increases. Although outward appearances vary, virtually all drivers are substantially impaired at .08 BAC. Research shows that the majority of drivers, even experienced drivers, are significantly impaired at .08 with regard to critical driving tasks such as braking, steering, lane changing, judgment, divided attention and multitasking.
When it comes to drinking and driving ask yourself if it's really worth it. Are you willing to lose your license, go to jail, pay a large fine, or harm another person? Even if you're not the one drinking, alcohol can hurt you. Riding with someone who has been drinking increases your risk of being involved in a car crash and seriously injured. Part of being responsible is making good, informed choices. Only you can choose to do that. But remember, your choices don't only affect you, but also those around you.
