Impaired driving under Criminal Code of Canada
- A fully licensed driver can be convicted of impaired driving under the Criminal Code of Canada, when driving with blood alcohol content (BAC) at or above 0.08, which represents 80 milligrams of alcohol for every 100 ml of blood.
- The impairment in driving ability can lead to serious consequences in both financial and human costs from a significant increase in collision risk.
- If convicted, the driver can lose his/her licence, be fined, or spend time in jail.
The definition of ”Warn range” & its consequences under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act
Drivers can face tough consequences with his/her BAC level from 0.05 to 0.08, which is defined as “warn range” in Ontario as of May 1, 2009. If convicted, the driver can lose his/her license at roadside for 3,7 or 30 days and a $150 administrative monetary penalty. It is not applicable to young drivers at the age of 21 or under due to Ontario’s zero BAC when driving.
A standard drink in Canada
A standard drink, which is a unit to quantify alcohol intake, contains 13.5 grams of alcohol or the equivalent of 0.6 ounces of 100% alcohol.
One standard drink is approximately:
- 12 ounces of beer, cider or cooler with 5 per cent alcohol (12x0.05=0.60=1SD)
- 5 ounces of wine with 12 per cent alcohol.
- 1.5 ounces (43 ml) of distilled alcohol (such vodka, gin or rye) with 40 per cent alcohol.
Many factors affect BAC levels, including but not limited to the following (according to MADD Canada & MTO)
- Age
- Gender
- Weight
- Rate of drink consumption
- The amount of food consumed
- Fat/Muscle content
- Metabolism
- Hydration
- Medication etc.
SAFETY TIP: When you plan to drink, don’t drive; call a taxi or a friend who doesn’t consume alcohol to drive you home.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be construed as a legal advice, but strictly for information only in this entire website. Please contact Trustworthy Legal Service for your independent legal advice in your particular situation. The first consultation is also required prior to my retainer of your case.
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