SIR Alcohol and the Body 2

Question 1

In British Columbia, what is the legal BAC limit for a fully licensed driver before they are considered impaired for driving purposes?

Accepted Answer

0.08%

Answer

In BC, the Criminal Code limit for impaired driving is 0.08% BAC, though police can issue roadside sanctions starting at 0.05%.

Question 2

At what BAC range does BC's 'warn range' begin, where police can impose immediate roadside sanctions?

Accepted Answer

0.05–0.08%

Answer

BC's warn range is 0.05–0.08% BAC, where drivers face immediate roadside prohibitions even though they are below the Criminal Code limit.

Question 3

How does alcohol affect a person's reaction time?

Accepted Answer

It slows reaction time even at low BAC levels

Answer

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that begins slowing reaction time at even low BAC levels, well before visible signs of intoxication appear.

Question 4

Why do women typically reach a higher BAC than men after consuming the same amount of alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Women generally have less body water and lower levels of alcohol-metabolizing enzymes

Answer

Women typically have a higher proportion of body fat, less body water to dilute alcohol, and lower levels of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, resulting in higher BAC.

Question 5

Which part of the brain is first affected by alcohol, contributing to lowered inhibitions?

Accepted Answer

The frontal lobe, which governs judgment and decision-making

Answer

Alcohol first impairs the frontal lobe, reducing a person's ability to judge risk and control impulses, which is why people feel more confident and less inhibited early in drinking.

Serving It Right Practice Test

Serving It Right Practice Test

SIR Alcohol and the Body 2