Virginia Blood Alcohol Content
If you have ever read any information about driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), then you have more than likely seen the acronym BAC. This stands for “blood alcohol content” or “blood alcohol concentration.”
Scientifically speaking, BAC is the concentration of alcohol in blood. It is usually measured as mass per volume. For example, a BAC of .01 percent means 0.01 grams of alcohol per 100 grams of blood, or 0.1 grams per 1000 grams of blood. Blood alcohol content is measured in many different units across the globe.
In Virginia, .08 percent is the maximum allowable BAC a person may have when operating a motor vehicle or boat.
There are three tests used to determine a driver’s BAC. The officer makes the decision about which test to use – the driver does not have a choice.
The first, and most common, is the breath test. Most officers choose to use this test because it is quick and inexpensive. A breath test can be performed at the scene or at a detainment center. To administer the test, the officer attaches a disposable mouthpiece onto a hand-held breath test device. He or she will then ask the driver to take a deep breath and breathe into the mouthpiece until asked to stop. After the test, a digital reading or printout reports the results.
If administered correctly, breath testing is pretty accurate. The purpose of the test is to determine ‘per se’ intoxication, which is probable cause to arrest a driver for being under the influence.
Another test used to determine BAC is a urine test. This test can only be performed at a medical or detention center.
The third method for determining a person’s BAC is by drawing a sample of the driver’s blood. Again, this test can only be performed at a medical or detention center.
If you have taken a breath test that resulted in a BAC of .08 percent or higher, you need to immediately hire an attorney to begin fighting the charges. Tillotson Law is here to help. Our attorney has years of experience of successfully handling DUI cases.
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