Blood Alcohol Content

The definition of blood alcohol content is the concentration of alcohol in one's bloodstream, expressed as a percentage. Blood alcohol content, or BAC, is used to determine whether a person is legally intoxicated, especially in operating or attempting to operate a motor vehicle.

In Kansas, it is illegal to operate or attempt to operate a motor vehicle while having a BAC of .08% or above. If you are under 21 years of age, the Zero Tolerance Law makes it illegal to operate or attempt to operate a motor vehicle with a BAC of .02 or above.

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level of .10 means that .1% of your bloodstream is composed of alcohol.

Explanation of BAC levels:

.020 - Light to moderate drinkers begin to feel some effects
.040 - Most people begin to feel relaxed
.060 - Judgment is somewhat impaired
.080 - Definite impairment of muscle coordination and driving skills. This is the legal intoxication level.
.100 - Clear deterioration of reaction time and control.
.120 - Vomiting usually occurs
.150 - Balance and movement are impaired and the equivalent of a 1/2 pint of whiskey is in the blood stream.
.200 - Most people begin to experience blackouts
.300 - Many people lose consciousness
.400 - Most people lose consciousness and some die
.450 - Breathing stops. This is a fatal dose for most people.

Do NOT rely on a BAC calculator to accurately estimate your blood alcohol levels and make an assessment if it is safe for you to drive. There are many factors that can influence your BAC, including:

  • Alcohol content of drinks consumed
  • Period of time drinks are consumed
  • Gender
  • Weight
  • Personal Health
  • Food Consumption
  • Medication

Source: http://awareawakealive.org/educate/blood-alcohol-content