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What is the definition of buzzed driving?
I’ve seen numerous public service announcements on TV about buzzed driving and how it can lead to a DUI. The only problem is that I’m not exactly sure what buzzed driving even is. What does buzzed driving mean?
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
While buzzed driving has no legal definition, it can be loosely defined as operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. In some cases, buzzed driving may lead to a
DUI or DWI
.In all 50 states and the District of Columbia, you can be charged with a DUI if you have a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher. But if the officer believes you’re impaired at all (i.e., buzzed), you can still get a reckless driving ticket even if your blood alcohol content is below the legal limit.
And if you’re under the influence of narcotics—even legal cannabis—the police officer can use their discretion to determine whether you’re driving while intoxicated or buzzed. Official charges will likely depend on the outcome of other tests, such as a field sobriety test, blood test, cheek swab, or something else.
Don’t drive buzzed, even if you feel like you’re OK. Taking a rideshare or calling a friend or family member to pick you up is always a better alternative.
From speeding tickets to DUIs, traffic citations can cause your car insurance rates to rise. But you can use the
Jerry
app to shop around for a better deal on insurance.Jerry will gather quotes from dozens of top-rated insurers in minutes. After you find a great rate, Jerry can help you buy new insurance and cancel your old policy. Customers save an average of nearly $900 per year!
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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