Drinking affects everyone differently, but always makes people more likely to make poor decisions. In New York, driving with a 0.08 blood alcohol content (BAC) or higher results in a DWI charge. Doing so with levels of 0.18 or higher is an aggravated offense. Here, learn how different BAC levels affect the body to understand why these are serious violations.

What Are the Side Effects of Different BAC Levels?

0.02

The body feels warmer when its BAC reaches this point. The person may feel relaxed and experience some judgment issues and changes in mood.

In terms of driving, this BAC level affects vision and the ability to multitask, which makes staying within the correct lanes and reading signs difficult. The driver may also have trouble spotting moving objects, such as pedestrians, wildlife, and other vehicles.

0.05 to 0.08

When BAC hits 0.05, the body relaxes further and the person may experience lowered inhibitions, decreased muscle control, and lack of alertness.

As this rises to the 0.08 level, the drinker’s coordination issues worsen, resulting in problems walking, balancing, and seeing. They may also have challenged reasoning and serious lack of judgment, including the ability to identify a dangerous situation. On the road, this could result in speeding and risky overtaking.

0.10 & Above

By the time BAC reaches the 0.10 level, the person experiences severe judgment problems, slower reaction times, and self-control issues. Alcohol can cause slurred speech, slowed thinking, and significant muscle coordination problems.

Someone who drinks past this point has a higher chance of blacking out or vomiting. They may not have the ability to walk independently and be aware of their surroundings. Driving when BAC is 0.18 or above will result in an Aggravated DWI violation since it’s nearly impossible to operate a motor vehicle safely with these impairments. 

If you or someone you love has been charged with DWI, contact the law office of Fiandach & Fiandach in Rochester, NY. The practice has provided dedicated counsel and representation to clients since 1979. As DWI specialists, they thoroughly research their cases to provide effective defense strategies. Call (585) 244-8910 to schedule a free consultation or visit them online for more information about DWI.