Drivers may be asked to perform a chemical sobriety test during a traffic stop. This can happen if the police suspect that a driver is inebriated. If the driver fails the chemical sobriety test, they could be arrested and charged for driving under the influence, which can lead to fines, jail time and a suspended license.
A driver may fail a chemical sobriety test if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is too high. Here is what you should know about BAC limits in North Dakota and how the police test drivers:
What is the BAC limit for drivers in North Dakota?
Blood alcohol content means the amount of alcohol in a person’s bloodstream. The more alcohol a person consumes, the higher their BAC level will reach.
In North Dakota, drivers who are 21 years of age or older cannot operate a vehicle if they have a BAC percentage of 0.08% or higher. Commercial drivers may face penalties if they have a BAC percentage of 0.04% or higher, which could lead to a suspended commercial license. Underage drivers have a zero-tolerance policy, which means that any amount of alcohol in the body could result in penalties.
Exceeding the BAC limit for the first time could result in up to $750 in fines, two days in jail and mandatory addiction evaluation depending on the factors of the case. Further offences will see the consequences rise.
What if a driver’s BAC levels are low? A driver could still face criminal charges if their BAC level is below the legal limit. Alcohol affects people differently, and driving under any amount of alcohol could endanger others.
Professional legal guidance can help people facing DUI charges protect their rights.