What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers aged 21 and older in most states?

The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers aged 21 and older in most states is 0.08%. This standard was established to promote safe driving and reduce alcohol-related accidents. Most states have adopted this limit as part of their impaired driving laws, reflecting research that shows impairment begins to substantially impact driving skills at or above this level.

At a BAC of 0.08%, a driver's reaction times, coordination, and judgment can be significantly compromised, increasing the risk of accidents. By maintaining this limit, states aim to deter drinking and driving behaviors and protect both drivers and pedestrians on the road. Lower limits, like those presented in the other options, do not accurately represent the legal threshold widely adopted across the United States for general drivers over the age of 21.