Hitting a concert with friends and enjoying a drink or two is a classic way to unwind. But the fun can turn sour if you get caught driving under the influence at a checkpoint on the way home. You might be wondering: if I pace myself and drink plenty of water, would I still be over the legal limit once the concert lets out?
In Michigan, the legal threshold for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for nearly all drivers. This means that your blood cannot have more than 0.08% alcohol by volume before you get behind the wheel. But unfortunately, there’s no magic formula to guarantee you’ll be under the limit, and hydration isn’t a surefire shield against a DUI.
So, will you be okay?
It’s impossible to say for certain whether you’ll be okay at a DUI checkpoint without knowing the specifics. The time between your last drink and the DUI checkpoint will significantly impact your BAC. Alcohol leaves your body at a slow, steady rate. So, waiting a while after your last drink can make a big difference.
Additionally, having a good meal before or during drinking slows down alcohol absorption. Food in your stomach helps create a barrier that delays alcohol entering your bloodstream.
That said, here’s the honest truth: relying solely on hydration to stay under the legal limit is risky. Even if you think you’re okay, a breathalyzer test at a checkpoint can tell a different story. One of the safest options is to plan for a designated driver or opt for ride-sharing services.
A DUI arrest in Michigan can end a fun time shared with friends at a concert on a sour note. Therefore, planning ahead can help ensure a safe and enjoyable night out. However, if you get a DUI charge due to a one-time slip-up, you can benefit from legal guidance as you fight these charges.