Blood Alcohol Science

Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is the concentration of alcohol in a person’s blood stream. Alcohol is quickly absorbed into the blood and can be measured within minutes of having an alcoholic drink. The amount of alcohol in the blood reaches its highest level about an hour after drinking. But food in the stomach may increase the amount of time it takes for the blood alcohol to reach its highest level. About 90% of alcohol is broken down in the liver, and the rest of it is passed out of the body in urine and through exhaled breaths. Variations in a person’s weight, gender, and body fat percentage can all affect how quickly a person’s body metabolizes alcohol.

Alcohol has a significant effect on the body, even when only small amounts are consumed. In large amounts, alcohol acts as a sedative and depresses the central nervous system, greatly affecting a person’s ability to drive. Individuals who drive under the influence of alcohol experience a slowed reaction time because of the alcohol’s effect on the nervous system, and this can lead to accidents, injuries, and even death. If a person’s blood alcohol content is .08 percent or higher, they will be considered legally intoxicated and can be charged with DUI for operating a motor vehicle in this condition.

Challenging Blood Alcohol Science

As a practiced DUI defense lawyer, Chris Cessna is highly knowledgeable about blood alcohol science and the laws pertaining to this subject. When facing charges as serious as DUI, it is important for you to choose a lawyer who is familiar with blood alcohol science because they will be better equipped to effectively handle your drunk driving charges.