The act of operating a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol or some other drug is considered to be driving under the influence of alcohol, drunk driving, driving while impaired or driving while intoxicated. It is a criminal offense to drive a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other drugs in most of the countries. Heavy fines will be levied for those who are caught for driving under the influence of alcohol. The statistics reveal that 39 % of the vehicle related deaths in the United States are due to drunk driving. Each and every country and state has separate DUI laws. Based on the country jurisdiction and laws criminal offense will be charged for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
Previously the law enforcing officer used to observe the driving symptoms of the drivers by asking them to walk on a straight line and ask them weave the hand by standing on one leg. Based on these the law enforcing officer will judge the situation of the drivers and can act accordingly. Gradually DUI laws established over the years and fixed a BAC limit of 0.08% while driving. It is illegal to have a BAC of more than 0.08% while driving in United States.
Concentration of alcohol in blood or breath can be tested by chemical tests. BAC can be tested using a breathalyzer. The A breathalyzer do not directly calculate or estimate the concentration of alcohol or drug content in the blood. The percentage of BAC is measured indirectly by estimating the amount of alcohol in someone’s breath. Breathalyzers sometimes give wrong readings as they are sensitive.
The penalties for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol has increased over the years. Drug or alcohol concentration in the blood is not the only way to conclude a persons sobriety. Because sometimes even though the BCA is less than 0.08% they might be charged with a DUI as there are signs of destruction There are laws for minimum legal drinking age to prevent the alcohol related deaths or injuries.
