The United States has relatively high permissible blood alcohol content (BAC) levels as a standard for drunk driving. In most of Europe, the legal limit is a BAC of .05 percent, and many nations have a zero-tolerance policy on drunk driving. However, the U.S. has started to impose more stringent laws when it comes to drunk driving.

Until recently, many states had a legal limit of .10 percent, but all 50 states have agreed to lower this limit. What's more, the limit is a per se violation--meaning that if you are driving with a BAC over .08 percent, you have committed a crime, and no further proof of intoxication is needed. In addition, many states are enacting laws that impose minor penalties on people with BAC levels of .05 percent.

In 27 states, harsher penalties are imposed if there is a minor in the car when you are driving under the influence. Furthermore, many states level charges of aggravated drunk driving if you have an exceptionally high BAC. Repeat offenders are shown little leniency, and some states are even imposing fines on drivers who have BAC between .05 percent and .08 percent, called "Driving While Impaired."

To be safe, make sure that you never drive with a BAC that could put you in legal peril. It can be hard to gauge your own BAC, so get a breathalyzer from AlcoTester.com so you always know your exact level of impairment. Shipping is free on all models. To find out more, call us today at 810-919-1994 or email info@alcotester.com.