Almost everyone will be impaired at .08. At .08, you will have difficulties controlling your speed, poor concentration, impaired perception and loss of the ability to process information about your surroundings. It is a criminal offence to drive with a blood alcohol level over .08. Similarly, you can be too impaired to drive from the use of marijuana, illicit drugs, over-the-counter drugs, or prescription drugs.

The law recognizes the impairments caused by alcohol and drugs. It is a criminal offence to be in control of a motor vehicle while over .08. It is also a criminal offence to be in control of a vehicle while impaired. Your ability may be impaired at a BAC below .08. It may also be impaired by the use of drugs. Unlike the offence of over .08, an impaired driving charge depends on the effect that alcohol or drugs have on the individual, not the amount consumed.

If you are convicted of over .08 or impaired driving you will have a criminal record. This can affect future travel, education, and employment opportunities. Some employers require criminal record checks and some countries will not allow people with a criminal record to enter or only allow them to enter if they receive a waiver.