Final answer:
Even if a person's BAC is below .08, they may not be safe to drive due to individual variations in alcohol's effects and alcohol metabolism rates. Driving skills can be impaired with any amount of alcohol, which is a concern highlighted by organizations such as MADD.
Step-by-step explanation:
A person who has been drinking but has not reached a BAC of .08 may still not be safe to drive. Alcohol intoxication affects skills and judgment necessary for safe driving, and the effects of alcohol can vary widely between individuals. Factors such as age, sex, pre-existing health conditions, and individual tolerance can influence how alcohol impairs a person.
Alcohol metabolism occurs at a rate of about 3.3 mmol/L (15 mg/dL) per hour in the human body. Even with a BAC under the legal limit, the driver may exhibit reduced reaction times, visual acuity, and alertness. In addition, organizations like MADD have worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, which have led to stricter laws like the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 to prevent alcohol-related accidents.