Blood Alcohol Level & DUI

Learn How a Driver's BAL Affects Tampa DUI Charges

According to Florida Statutes §316.193, it is considered a criminal offense to drive when normal faculties are impaired or when one's blood alcohol level is 0.08% or higher. Also known as blood alcohol content, blood alcohol concentration, or simply BAC, blood alcohol level refers to the amount of alcohol in an individual’s blood at any given time. This is considered the most accurate way to determine intoxication during a DUI test.

You can rest assured knowing that we will do everything possible to challenge the evidence from blood alcohol testing. Contact our Tampa BAC lawyer today for a free consultation.

Blood Alcohol Levels & Signs of Intoxication

Studies have shown that certain blood alcohol levels will result in varying levels of impairment. For example, many people appear to be completely normal between 0.010 and 0.029%; however, the higher the blood alcohol level, the more exaggerated their symptoms of intoxication may become.

The estimated effects of alcohol at different BACs include:

• 0.030 to 0.059% - Most people will begin to feel euphoric at this level. It is commonly known as being “buzzed” or “tipsy.” Other behavioral symptoms include general relaxation and decreased inhibition. It may affect concentration, but the symptoms are generally unnoticeable.
• 0.06 to 0.09% - At this level, someone begins to become legally intoxicated. Most will have fewer inhibitions and will become more extroverted. They will also struggle with their reasoning and judgment skills. Other impairments may include limited depth perception and peripheral vision.
• 0.10 to 0.19% - When individuals reach this level, they will often begin to over-express themselves, resulting in wild emotional swings. Impairments begin to affect reflexes and reaction time, as well as general motor control. Many will stagger while walking or slur their speech.

Note that this is just a general overview of how varying blood alcohol levels can affect someone. A person’s weight, gender, how much they ate, and many other factors influence what intoxication looks like, as well as how many drinks it takes to reach a certain BAC and/or feel the effects of alcohol.

Learn How Our Tampa BAC Lawyer Can Help

If you were arrested for DUI with any blood alcohol level, you need a strong defense lawyer in your corner. The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk has been defending clients in Tampa and throughout Florida for more than 20 years. We know how to challenge DUI tests and have dealt with charges involving all blood alcohol levels, low and high. 

To find out how our Tampa blood alcohol level lawyer can help you, call (813) 321-7323. Your initial consultation is free and private.