While it may seem that DUI charges are cut and dry, the fact of the matter is that there are many factors that can affect a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC) and many defense options to DUI charges. Keep reading to learn about the effect gender has on BAC and then contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 if you are in need of a free legal consultation.
The Three Reasons Women Often Reach a Higher BAC than Men
The fact of the matter is that women do reach higher BAC levels than men when they drink alcohol at similar rates. There are three main reasons for this:
- Women have less water content in their bodies compared to men;
- Women have less of the enzyme that absorbs alcohol in the body compared to men;
- Women generally have more body fat, which leads to higher BAC levels.
Note that these are all general facts that may not apply to every woman in every situation. However, in most cases if a man and women of similar weights and ages are drinking the same amount, the women will end up with a higher BAC than the man will.
Other Factors Can Affect a Person’s BAC
Of course, a person’s gender is not the only thing that will affect their BAC levels. Other factors that can have a significant impact include their age, what they have eaten before drinking, how much and how fast they are drinking, and their weight. Finally, how much stress a person is under can have an affect on their BAC.
What is Blood Alcohol Concentration?
In order to understand the specifics of BAC, it is important to understand exactly what it is. It is the measure of how much alcohol a person has in their bloodstream. The higher the number is, the more alcohol there is in their bloodstream. The amount is expressed as a percentage. In California, the legal amount above which a person cannot legally drive is 0.08% - in most cases.
Drivers under the age of 21 have lower limits – in most cases they cannot legally drive with any BAC above 0.00% - and commercial drivers have a lower limit of 0.04% in most cases.
Work with a DUI Attorney Who Can Help You Fight Your Charges
If you are facing DUI charges, it is important to find the best DUI attorney who can help you. You have found that attorney in Law Office of Michael L. Fell. When you call us at (949) 585-9055, we will begin with a free legal consultation during which we will carefully consider your case. We can offer defense options and give you an idea of what your best move is. Call us now to get the help you need.