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 2003-2005, 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 almost all 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 which could be a felony. Repeat offenders are shown little leniency, and some states are even imposing fines on drivers who have BAC between .03 percent and .05 percent, called "Driving While Impaired."

When you see someone who has been drinking, you usually have to rely on your senses to determine whether they are intoxicated. Slurred speech, uncoordinated movements, and alcohol-laced breath are often the surest hallmarks of intoxication, but these clues require context--and can easily be masked. Thankfully, nothing can fool a breathalyzer.

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 visit www.AlcoTester.com today.