Texas is a state known for strict drinking and driving laws. One main component of this strictness is the fact that the legal limit of Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is lower in Texas than in most other states. BAC is one of the main indicators that police officials use as evidence that a driver has been operating their vehicle under the influence and must be prosecuted according to the law. But what exactly is BAC?

Blood Alcohol Concentration

Blood alcohol concentration measures the weight of alcohol in any specific volume of an individual's blood and creates a percentage. This indicates their level of intoxication. BAC levels are measured either through a breathalyzer test or through a blood test. The results of either of these can be taken to court and used in a trial accusing the driver of operating under the influence.

Another method of indicating whether or not a driver is under the influence of alcohol is using a field sobriety test. These can usually show a police officer if the driver is intoxicated, but they do not measure the driver's BAC.

In the state of Texas, any driver legally able to drive after drinking as long as they maintain less than a.8 BAC. If you are caught driving with a BAC of.8 or higher, you will be prosecuted for driving under the influence and can face jail time, large fines, and restrictions or suspension of your license. This all only applied to those legally able to drink. For those under 21 there is a zero tolerance policy for driving under the influence, meaning that if a minor is driving with any alcohol in their system they will be prosecuted for a DUI.

Texas also has stricter punishments for those driving under the influence with a child (any youth under the age of 16) in the car. Fines, jail time, and duration of license suspension are increased for this particular offense.

Being accused of driving under the influence is a serious offense. A conviction can mean jail time, large fees, and the suspension of driving licenses. It is important you know your rights so if you find yourself facing a DUI conviction you can protect them and yourself. For more information on BAC levels, BAC laws, and driving under the influence in Texas, visit http://www.dwiattorneyhouston.com today.

Joseph Devine

Article Source: