Some individuals mistakenly believe that consuming one or two drinks is safe before driving. Unfortunately, many drivers overlook their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) levels before operating a vehicle. However, it is essential to note that in Georgia, driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher is illegal[^1^].
Determining the Allowable Number of Drinks in Georgia
Although the legal threshold for BAC in Georgia is 0.08%, the effects of alcohol can vary from person to person[^2^]. This variability can make it challenging to determine the number of drinks that would result in surpassing the legal limit[^2^].
Typically, one drink refers to a 5-ounce glass of wine, a 12-ounce glass of beer, or a 1.5-ounce shot of liquor[^2^]. According to general guidelines, it may take approximately four drinks for men and three drinks for women to reach the 0.08% legal limit within an hour[^2^]. However, it is important to remember that these guidelines can vary depending on the information source and the individual consuming the alcohol[^2^].
In some cases, even a single alcoholic beverage may push someone weighing 100 pounds over the legal limit[^2^]. Conversely, someone weighing 160 pounds may still pass a breath test despite consuming three or more alcoholic drinks[^2^].
Factors Affecting Blood Alcohol Concentration Levels
Various factors can influence a person’s BAC after consuming alcohol[^3^]. Some of these factors include body weight, body fat percentage, interactions with prescription medications, time between drinks, amount of food consumed, and individual alcohol tolerance[^3^].
Individuals must consider these factors to determine the number of alcoholic beverages they can consume before reaching the legal driving limit[^3^]. Understanding how alcohol personally affects them can help individuals make responsible decisions about driving after drinking.
Consequences of Drunk Driving in Georgia
Driving under the influence of alcohol carries severe penalties in Georgia[^4^]. If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries due to a drunk driver, you may be entitled to hold them fully accountable under Georgia’s laws[^4^].
A person found guilty of drunk driving in Georgia can face criminal penalties, collateral consequences, and civil liability[^4^]. These consequences include jail or prison time, fines, community service, probation, suspension or revocation of their driver’s license, suspension or revocation of professional licenses, court-ordered driver retraining, court-ordered drug or alcohol treatment, court-ordered mental health counseling, loss of firearm rights, citizenship or immigration issues, and child custody or visitation issues[^4^].
Regardless of personal beliefs about driving after consuming alcohol, it is crucial to be aware of the legal limits to ensure both road safety and personal well-being. Even if you believe you can pass a breathalyzer test, the consequences of drunk driving in Georgia are severe[^4^].
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured by a Drunk Driver
If you have sustained serious injuries in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you may be eligible for financial compensation to cover your damages[^5^]. Seeking assistance from a drunk driving injury attorney can help you pursue maximum compensation for your suffering[^5^].
Once you have received medical clearance, it is advisable to contact an attorney to guide you through the process[^5^]. They can investigate the accident’s cause, gather evidence to prove liability, and assess the value of your claim based on your damages[^5^].
Contact a Georgia Drunk Driving Injury Attorney for Legal Support
If you have been severely injured or lost a loved one due to someone else’s drunk driving, you have the opportunity to hold the responsible party accountable[^6^]. Consult with a Georgia personal injury lawyer at Bader Scott Injury Lawyers for a free consultation[^6^].
Our firm provides no-cost, risk-free consultations to victims of drunk driving accidents throughout Georgia[^6^]. Take advantage of this opportunity by calling our office or completing our online contact form[^6^].
Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form today[^6^].
[^1^]: Source: Georgia Department of Driver Services
[^2^]: Source: Various reputable sources
[^3^]: Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
[^4^]: Source: Georgia Code Section 40-6-391
[^5^]: Source: Bader Scott Injury Lawyers
[^6^]: Source: Bader Scott Injury Lawyers
