What is the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers to be considered intoxicated?

The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit that defines intoxication for commercial drivers is set at 0.04. This lower threshold is implemented because commercial drivers are subject to stricter regulations compared to non-commercial drivers due to the responsibilities and risks associated with operating large vehicles. A BAC of 0.04 is the point at which a commercial driver is legally considered unable to operate a vehicle safely, reflecting the serious risk that alcohol impairment poses in such a demanding occupation.

Commercial drivers are held to a higher standard to ensure safety on the roads, given that their vehicles can cause significant damage and endanger lives if operated while impaired. Therefore, while the general legal limit for many drivers is 0.08, the lower limit for commercial drivers underscores the emphasis on safety in the industry.