Calculating Your BAC

The article emphasizes that impaired judgment makes self-assessment unreliable.

"Just because you can touch your nose with the tip of your index finger or hop on one foot doesn't mean your BAC is under control."

1. You Be the Judge — Grade D

Self-observation of intoxication signs — reduced inhibition, coordination loss, impaired reasoning — is unreliable because poor judgment accompanies intoxication.

2. One-Drink-Per-Hour Rule — Grade C

This tracking method ignores individual variables affecting BAC, including gender, age, weight, metabolism, medications, and food consumption, making it inconsistent.

3. BAC Calculators and Charts — Grade C+

Free online calculators provide rough estimates based on gender, weight, and drink type/quantity. However, these tools lack precision.

"Simplicity is not always a virtue. BAC calculators and charts have inherent limitations."

4. Breath Testing — Grade A+

Commercial breathalyzers offer accurate, portable measurement. Professional-grade models using fuel cell sensors provide superior accuracy compared to semiconductor technology alternatives.

Conclusion

Breath testing is the most reliable method for measuring BAC before driving decisions.