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So changing the legal BAC limit for drivers from .08 to .05% may seem like a subtle adjustment, but according to the National Transportation Safety Board's research—as well as documented results from countries that have already made the change—implementing the law could protect drivers from thousands of alcohol-related traffic accidents every year, saving hundreds of lives and preventing thousands of injuries.
According to the NTSB's report, the level of intoxication at .08 is significantly more dangerous than .05. To compare:
At .05% BAC, drivers:
- Experience loss of small-muscle control
- May be unable to focus eyes quickly
- Have impared judgement and reduced coordination
- Are less alert
- Are 39% more likely to have an accident
At .08% BAC, drivers:
- Have poor muscle coordination and balance
- Have difficulty sensing and reacting to danger
- Will have problems conscentrating
- May not be able to judge the speed of their vehicle
- Are 100% more likely to have an accident
Lowering the BAC level for drivers means more stringent consequences for anyone who gets behind the wheel after having a few. It could finally get the message through to drivers who won't believe that just because they don't feel heavily intoxicated their faculties haven't been impared—be it through behavior modification or facing charges for a full DUI after getting caught.
Have you or a loved one been injured by a drunk driver? Know your rights. Contact the Norcross DUI victim lawyers at the Law Offices of Shane Smith for a free consultation. Call (770)487-8999 today.
