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Why “Buzzed” Driving is Drunk Driving

The Dangers of Having “Just One” Drink

You may have heard people say that they will “be good” and have “just one” drink because they are driving. However, consuming just one drink can still impact a person’s ability to operate a vehicle. Here’s why buzzed driving is dangerous.

How BAC Levels Impact Driving Ability

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 9,288 people died in alcohol-related crashes between 2009 and 2018. Although the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is .08 in California, and most states in the U.S. (except for Utah at .05), even having a small amount of alcohol in your system can impair driving abilities. Here’s what happens at each BAC level:

  • .02 BAC - Loss of judgment, more relaxed, and mood changes.
  • .05 BAC - Lack of vision, focus, impaired judgment, less alert, lowered inhibitions.
  • .08 BAC - Poor balance, slower reaction time, lack of self-control, impaired memory.
  • .10 BAC - Even more decreased reaction time, slurred speech, and lack of coordination.
  • .15 BAC - Vomiting, severe loss of balance, severe lack of vision, focus, and judgment.

How To Avoid a Drunk Driving Accident

While it’s impossible to know if you are driving near a drunk driver, it’s critical to stay alert, drive defensively, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Even if you’ve had just one drink, don’t get behind the wheel. Designate a sober driver before heading out. If you notice your driver has been drinking, don’t let them get behind the wheel. Instead, call a taxi, rideshare service, or call a sober friend or family member to take you home.

Injured By a Drunk Driver? Contact Del Rio & Caraway, P.C. Today.

When drunk drivers make a selfish decision to get behind the wheel and cause a severe accident, they should be held accountable for their actions. The aftermath of a drunk driving accident can mean a long road to recovery along with mounting medical expenses. You have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. is here to support you throughout the entire process. Let us protect your rights while you focus on healing from your injuries.

Contact Del Rio & Caraway, P.C. today at (916) 229-6755 or send us a message to discuss your case.

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