If they’re planning to drive home after a night out, people often ask one simple question: How many drinks can I have? They don’t want to drive while intoxicated, and they’re looking for a number to guide their night.
This is a flawed mindset for many reasons. For instance, people who ask this may not even know what counts as a “drink.” If you have a beer that is 5% alcohol and your friend has one that is 10%, you’ve both had a single beverage, but you’ve clearly consumed different amounts of alcohol.
How many drinks does it take to be impaired?
Many factors determine how alcohol affects people. One big one is just what gender you are. Men and women may be impacted much differently by the same number of drinks.
Some of this has to do with body size, and men tend to be larger. A man who is over 6 feet tall and weighs 250 pounds is going to be able to drink much more than his 5 feet, 100 pound date. She may have a glass of wine and instantly feel it, whereas he could have a drink or two without feeling like he’s been drinking at all.
The only sure way to avoid drunk driving is not to drive if you’ve been drinking. Limiting yourself to a specific number of drinks may not do any good — particularly if you’re comparing your consumption to anyone else’s. That said, many people who believe they can drive safely end up being arrested on DUI charges. If you’re facing these allegations, be sure you understand your legal options and your rights. An experienced attorney can help you.