What is the correct blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for driving in most states?

The correct blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for driving in most states is 0.08%. This limit is established as a legal threshold for driving under the influence of alcohol, indicating that motorists are presumed to be impaired at this level. When an individual tests at or above this BAC level, they face legal penalties, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time.

The BAC limit of 0.08% reflects research demonstrating that alcohol significantly impairs driving abilities, including judgment, coordination, and reaction times. This level was adopted nationwide in the United States largely due to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's push for stricter laws aimed at reducing alcohol-related accidents and fatalities.

In contrast, lower BAC limits such as 0.05% can be found in some jurisdictions for specific groups, like novice drivers or commercial drivers, where stricter regulations apply. Higher limits, such as 0.10% and 0.12%, were common in the past but are now generally regarded as outdated and unsafe, leading to increased legal limits being set closer to the 0.08% benchmark.