You’ve probably seen those signs or maybe a public service announcement on the internet or TV that tells you, “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.” Not only can driving when you’re feeling just a little “buzzed” after a hard seltzer or glass of wine be dangerous, but it can get you charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Missouri.
Under Missouri law, while the legal limit is .08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for those 21 and over, law enforcement officers can arrest drivers who don’t meet that threshold if their driving is impaired by alcohol or any other substance – legal or illegal. People can get a DWI if they drive after taking any kind of medication (even an over-the-counter one) that causes drowsiness or other symptoms that affect the ability to drive safely.
For those under 21, driving while buzzed is even more likely to have legal consequences. Missouri, like other states, has a “zero tolerance” law that allows police to arrest drivers under 21 for DWI if they have any alcohol in their system. Of course, they can also be arrested for showing signs of impairment like those discussed above.
Officers look for signs of impaired driving
As long as an officer has reasonable suspicion to stop someone for impaired driving – such as swerving between lanes, nearly colliding with other vehicles or even driving too slowly for no apparent reason – they can potentially arrest them if their behavior gives them probable cause to do so. That’s true regardless of what any breath or blood test shows is in their system.
Even a small amount of alcohol can affect a driver’s judgment, alertness and even their coordination. Since driving often involves making split-second moves or decisions to avoid a crash, it’s not wise to drive if any of those things are affected by alcohol, drugs, drowsiness or distraction.
Since the law gives police this latitude to arrest people for impaired driving, it’s important to take a DWI charge seriously, even if you weren’t over the legal limit. It can have serious consequences for your future. Getting trusted legal guidance as soon as possible can help you protect your rights and allow you to work towards a favorable outcome.