The precise definition used in court will vary
from state to state; however, it will relate to the inability of the
driver to operate a motor vehicle with the same caution
characteristic of a sober person of ordinary prudence under the same
or similar circumstances. It is not necessary for someone to have an
alcohol level that is above the legal limit to be under the
influence. However, most states do allow a jury to infer or presume
that if someone is above the legal limit at the time the test was
taken, and if the test was given close in time to the time of
driving (within two or three hours), that the driver is under the
influence. The manner in which the vehicle is driven is relevant,
but not usually determinative in and of itself. |