Q: When am I impaired? A: Because of the number of factors that affect BAC, it is very difficult to assess your own BAC or impairment. Even small amounts of alcohol affect one’s brain and the ability to drive. People often swear they are “fine” after several drinks – but in fact, the failure to recognize alcohol impairment is often a symptom of impairment. While … Read More

Q: What about other medications or drugs? A: Medications or drugs will not change your BAC. However, if you drink alcohol while taking certain medications or drugs, you may feel – and be – more impaired, which can affect your ability to perform driving-related tasks.  

Q: What affects my BAC? A: How fast a person’s BAC rises varies based on a number of factors: The number of drinks. The more you drink, the higher your BAC. How fast you drink. When alcohol is consumed quickly, you will reach a higher BAC than when it is consumed over a longer period of time. Your gender. Women generally have less water and more … Read More

Q: Does the type of alcohol I drink affect my BAC? A: No. A drink is a drink, is a drink. A typical drink equals about half an ounce of alcohol (.54 ounces, to be exact). This is the approximate amount of alcohol found in: one shot of distilled spirits, or one 5-ounce glass of wine, or one 12-ounce beer.

A Guide to Understanding Blood Alcohol Concentration and Alcohol Impairment Q: What is “BAC”? A: The amount of alcohol in a person’s body is measured by the weight of the alcohol in a certain volume of blood (measured in grams per deciliter). This is called blood alcohol concentration or “BAC.” Alcohol is absorbed directly through the walls of the stomach and the small intestine … Read More

Stay Alert! Remember that long trips can be tough on children—and, in turn, tough on you. Plan enough time to stop along the way to take a group stretch, get something to eat and drink, return any calls or text messages, and change drivers if you’re feeling tired or drowsy. Consider staying overnight at a hotel or family resort. It … Read More

Safety First Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones Buckle Up. Every Trip. Every Time. All passengers must agree to wear their seat belts every time they are riding in your vehicle. Set the example by always wearing your seat belt. Protect the Children When traveling with children, take every precaution to keep them safe. All children under 13 should ride … Read More

Pack an Emergency Roadside Kit Even a well-maintained vehicle can break down, so it’s advisable to put together an emergency roadside kit to carry with you. A cell phone tops the list of suggested emergency kit contents since it allows you to call for help when and where you need it. Suggested emergency roadside kit contents: Cell phone and charger … Read More