What is the most accurate way to assess legal intoxication?

The most accurate way to assess legal intoxication is through a blood or breath test. These tests provide measurable data regarding a person's blood alcohol concentration (BAC), which is the legal standard for determining intoxication. The use of scientific methods, such as breathalyzers or blood tests, ensures that the assessment is based on objective physiological evidence rather than subjective interpretation.

Other methods, such as evaluating physical appearance or observing behavior, may provide some insights but can be influenced by various factors unrelated to alcohol consumption, such as fatigue, medical conditions, or even individual variability in appearance or behavior. Calculating the number of drinks consumed does not reliably indicate intoxication, as factors such as the individual's weight, metabolism, and the type of alcohol consumed play significant roles in how alcohol affects a person. Thus, using blood or breath tests remains the most reliable and legally accepted method to assess intoxication levels.