What is the maximum allowable blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for commercial drivers?

The maximum allowable blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for commercial drivers is established as 0.04% or lower. This regulation reflects the heightened responsibility and potential dangers inherent in operating commercial vehicles compared to non-commercial vehicles.

Commercial drivers, such as bus or truck operators, must maintain a higher standard of sobriety to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on the road. Driving with a BAC of 0.04% or higher is considered a significant impairment in the context of commercial driving, and the strict limit helps to mitigate risks associated with accidents caused by impaired judgment and decreased reaction times.

In context, the thresholds for non-commercial drivers are higher, allowing for a BAC of up to 0.08%, which is not applicable to commercial drivers. Therefore, the 0.04% limit is specifically designed to maintain higher safety standards in commercial driving.