Exceeding the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in New Hampshire is one of the most surefire ways to end up facing DUI charges. Technically, yes, a person could be charged even if they’re under the legal BAC limit. They could also face charges if they’re impaired by something that wouldn’t register on a breath test, such as prescription medications, marijuana or illegal drugs.
But in many cases, the police will simply administer a breath test to check and see if the person’s BAC exceeds the limit under state law. So what is that limit and what do drivers need to know?
There are multiple limits
The most important thing for drivers to remember is that there are a few different limits that may apply. For most people, the limit is a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%. But while this may apply in the majority of cases, it doesn’t apply in 100% of them.
For example, commercial drivers have a legal limit that is set at just 0.04%. If someone is driving a delivery truck, construction equipment, a school bus, a semi truck or another commercial vehicle, they need to be even more careful about their drinking habits.
Similarly, New Hampshire uses a zero-tolerance BAC limit for underage drivers. This is just 0.02%. It only applies to those who are under 21 years old. But a teenage driver who has half of a beer could still fail the test, even though they’re nowhere near 0.08%.
Are you facing DUI charges? It’s important to understand the category you fit into and the legal limit you face while looking into all of your defense options.
