You have probably noticed that not everyone has the same alcohol tolerance. Some individuals can drink a significant amount of alcohol without appearing affected, while others may get tipsy after a single drink. This tolerance can even impact charges for driving under the influence (DUI) in California.
So, why can some people drink more than others and avoid a DUI conviction? Let’s dig into some of the science behind alcohol tolerance with this article. You can also focus on the results of DUI convictions with the Simmrin Law Group. Get in contact with us now by calling
(310) 896-2723.
Focus on Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) and Drinking
Drinking alcohol beverages increases your blood alcohol content (BAC). The state of California has set limits on how high your BAC can be before you are no longer allowed to legally operate a vehicle. Throughout the state, you must keep your BAC:
- Under 0.08% if you are over 21
- Under 0.04% if you are a commercial driver
- Under 0.01% if you are under 21
However, you can also be arrested if you are driving while inebriated. This charge does not specifically deal with your BAC. In fact, you can be convicted even if your BAC is under the legal limit in some situations. This is because some people become inebriated even if their BAC is legally acceptable.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Physical Factors Associated with Alcohol Tolerance
Individuals have different tolerance for alcohol for a wide number of reasons. Some people are genetically predisposed to be more affected by alcohol than others. Additionally, an individual’s weight can impact how much they can drink before they become inebriated.
Bodyweight, size, and other factors allow men to generally drink more than women without becoming impaired. For example, it’s generally estimated that:
- Men need to drink at least five beverages in two hours to raise their BAC over the legal limit
- Women need to drink at least four beverages in two hours to raise their BAC over the legal limit
Defining an Alcoholic Beverage
We mentioned that drinking a certain number of beverages in a two-hour period may raise your BAC over the limit. There are many different types of alcoholic drinks. Different drinks have varying amounts of alcohol. You may get the same amount of alcohol from one:
- Standard can of beer (12 oz.)
- Glass of wine (5 oz.)
- Shot of hard alcohol (1.5 oz.)
However, even among the same type of beverages, alcohol content can vary greatly.
Other Factors That Change the Impact of Alcohol
There are numerous other factors that can change the way your body processes alcohol. For example, eating before you drink or while you consume alcohol may diminish the impact of alcohol. The food in your stomach will force your body to absorb alcohol into your bloodstream more slowly.
Drinking slowly can also limit the effects of alcohol. Someone who has one drink in a two-hour period, instead of two or three, will be less impacted by alcohol.
BAC Testing in the State of California
You may be stopped by a police officer who suspects you are driving under the influence (DUI) in California. The officer may request that you complete BAC testing to determine if you are driving under the influence.
You may be asked to complete a preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) test. Note that you may legally refuse this test UNLESS you are:
- Under 21
- On DUI probation
- Legally arrested
All drivers in the state of California must comply with BAC testing after an arrest. Failure to go along with a lawfully requested test can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Get Help Handling DUI Charges in Los Angeles
You could be charged with a DUI even if you drank the same amount of alcohol as everyone else around you. In this situation, you have legal options. Make sure you contact a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles as soon as you are arrested by calling (310) 896-2723.
The DUI lawyers at the Simmrin Law Group can go over your case right now. We may be able to show that you were not inebriated. Our team could also work to show that you were stopped by a law enforcement officer without cause. Learn more about your legal options by working with us now.
Focus on Resolving DUI Accusations in California
Some people can drink more than others and avoid a DUI. Eating before you drink and basing your alcohol intake on your body type can help you avoid DUI charges. If you are arrested for a DUI, you can get help now from a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles. Contact the Simmrin Law Group now to get a FREE consultation.
You can easily reach us by completing our online contact form or calling (310) 896-2723.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form