Idaho Star, Operator'S Manual, Page: 58 / 72

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Without taking into account any other factors, these examples illustrate why
time is a critical factor when a rider decides to drink.
A person who drinks:
•
Seven drinks
over the span of three hours would have at least four (7 - 3
= 4) drinks remaining in their system at the end of the three hours. They
would need at least another four hours to eliminate the four remaining
drinks before they consider riding.
•
Four drinks
over the span of two hours would have at least two (4 - 2 =
2) drinks remaining in their system at the end of the two hours. They
would need at least another two hours to eliminate the two remaining
drinks before they consider riding.
There are times when a larger person may not accumulate as high a
concentration of alcohol for each drink consumed. They have more blood and
other bodily fluids. But because of individual differences, it is better not to take
the chance that abilities and judgment have not been affected. Whether or not
you are legally intoxicated is not the real issue. Impairment of judgment and
skills begins well below the legal limit.
Alcohol and the Law
Under Idaho law, you are considered to be driving under the influence if your
BAC is .02 or more if you under 21 years of age, .04 or more if you are
operating a commercial vehicle, and .08 or more if you are 21 or older. An
alcohol concentration of .20 or more carries even stiffer penalties. Even if your
BAC is less than .08, you may be convicted of driving under the influence of
other intoxicating substances.
Consequences of Conviction
Years ago, first offenders had a good chance of getting off with a small fine and
participation in alcohol-abuse classes. Today the laws of most states impose stiff
penalties on drinking operators. And those penalties are mandatory, meaning
that judges must impose them.
If you’re convicted in Idaho, the criminal penalties are:
•
For a first conviction
— Up to six months in jail; up to a $1,000 fine;
mandatory driver’s license suspension of at least 90 days and up to
180 days (one year if under 21), with absolutely no driving privileges for
the first 30 days (first 90 days if under 21).
•
For a second conviction within 10 years
— Mandatory jail sentence
from 10 days to one year (30 days if under 21); up to a $2,000 fine;