Consuming alcohol at a Washington bar or anywhere else may impair your ability to walk, talk or drive a vehicle. In all 50 states, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle if you have a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher, and in Utah, the legal limit is 0.05.
Impairment may occur after consuming a single drink
When your blood alcohol level hits 0.02, you may feel relaxed and make decisions that you wouldn’t when completely sober. As your blood alcohol level increases to 0.05, you may talk louder or have trouble controlling smaller muscles. The more alcohol that you consume, the harder it will be to retain your balance, hear or keep track of objects. If your blood alcohol level is between 0.20 and 0.29, your chances of getting seriously hurt increase because you are less sensitive to pain.
Always attempt to drink in moderation
According to the national dietary guidelines, a woman who drinks in moderation can consume one alcoholic beverage per day. A man who drinks in moderation can consume up to two alcoholic beverages per day. Generally speaking, 12 ounces of beer or a single shot of liquor is considered to be a single standard drink.
Other factors might influence your blood alcohol level
It is important to note that the amount of beer, wine or liquor that you consume is only one factor to consider when calculating your blood alcohol level. You also need to consider your gender, weight and family history when determining how drunk you may be. Your past drinking habits might also determine your level of intoxication at any given time.
If you are injured because of the negligent actions of an intoxicated individual, you may be entitled to compensation. A personal injury attorney may help you receive payment for medical bills or other damages related to an accident caused by another person’s negligence. In the event that multiple parties are responsible for your injuries, an attorney may be able to identify them and pursue legal action.