How much alcohol will cause me to blow a .08 or higher test?
 
• Numerous factors effect the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of a person and that BAC level is constantly changing in a person based upon whether the alcohol is in the absorption phase or the elimination phase. The level goes up fairly quickly after consumption but varies based upon the person’s weight, gender, amount of food and what type of food is in the stomach before drinking. Also, the type of beverage consumed and over what time period will have a bearing on the result. The elimination phase is a much slower rate. Many times individuals have gone to bed with a BAC over the limit and gotten up the next morning and were charged with a DUI driving to work. This is because the elimination is slower, and the BAC level was still above the .08. A chart is attached that will give some general guidance as to the time and amount based on weight of person. But remember that your BAC will likely be below the .08 level shortly after you have completed your drinking and be on the rise as you are driving home later, so that while driving home you will begin to feel the effects of the alcohol that you consumed earlier. Also, remember that the machine will measure “alcohol” and does not distinguish between all compounds that contain mixtures that are considered “alcohol”. Look at the labels on the hand washing solutions that are on the market. Most of them contain 63-65% ethyl alcohol, and we often wipe our face and hands off before driving home from work with this type of solution. Look at the mouthwash you use before you go out for the evening and check the alcohol content. Such solutions are often read by the breath machines and will give a partial reading of these solutions in combination with any alcohol consumed to give a combined reading that purports to be only your breath test.