What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level that defines driving under the influence?

The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level that defines driving under the influence is established at .08 or greater. This threshold is significant because it is widely recognized across many states, including Minnesota, as the point at which an individual is considered impaired and unable to operate a vehicle safely.

This level has been determined through research and statistical analysis that indicate drivers with a BAC at or above this limit are significantly more likely to be involved in accidents. It reflects the balance between recognizing individual differences in alcohol tolerance and providing a clear legal standard that can be enforced.

Other BAC levels mentioned, such as .04 or .10, may indicate some level of impairment, but they do not constitute the universal legal standard for driving under the influence. For example, while .04 may apply to commercial drivers or under specific circumstances, it does not apply broadly to all drivers. Meanwhile, higher levels like .10 or .12 represent severer degrees of intoxication but are not the legal limit set for the general public. Therefore, .08 remains the key benchmark for DUI laws.