When is a person considered legally intoxicated?

In New Hampshire, individuals are considered legally intoxicated when their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08 or higher. BAC is the measure of alcohol in a person’s system, and it is determined by test results of a breathalyzer, blood, or urine sample. New Hampshire law assumes that any driver operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 or greater is impaired due to their alcohol consumption. Generally, a person’s BAC will rise with each drink they consume, but the rate of intoxication varies by person. Factors such as body weight, gender, and food consumption also influence the speed at which different people become intoxicated. If a person is found to have a BAC of 0.08 or greater, they may be found guilty of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). This offense is a felony charge in New Hampshire and it carries serious penalties, including license suspension, fines up to $2,000, and even jail time. Additionally, individuals charged with DWI in the state may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. This device requires the driver to blow into a breathalyzer before they can start their car, and it prevents the vehicle from operating if alcohol is detected in the driver’s system. To avoid being charged with DWI, New Hampshire state law recommends that drivers abstain from drinking alcohol if they plan to drive.

Related FAQs

When is a person considered legally intoxicated?
How do "no fault" states handle drunk driving accidents?
Is it possible to get a driving under the influence (DUI) charge reduced?
How long does a DUI conviction stay on a person's criminal record?
What are the possible criminal penalties for a DUI conviction?
Are there any special laws governing drunk driving in my state?
Are there any defenses to a DUI charge?
What is the difference between driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI)?
What are the consequences of being charged with a "felony DUI"?
Is jail time possible for a drunk driving accident?

Related Blog Posts

Can a First-Time Drunk Driver Avoid Jail Time? - July 31, 2023
How to Handle Insurance Companies After a Drunk Driving Accident - August 7, 2023
What Are the Possible Penalties for a Drunk Driving Accident? - August 14, 2023
A Guide to Hiring an Attorney for a Drunk Driving Accident - August 21, 2023
How to Prove Negligence in a Drunk Driving Accident - August 28, 2023