Predicting Alcohol Impairment: Perceived Intoxication Versus BAC

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to report the relationship among perceived intoxication, performance impairment, and actual blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels. Fifteen subjects, aged 21 to 40, completed both single- and double-dose sessions of alcohol consumption. BACs, reaction and anticipation time, and perceived intoxication data were collected during both sessions. Analysis of data showed that perceived intoxication was significantly related to performance impairment, but the actual BAC was not.