What BAC level may lead to permanent brain damage or death?

A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level between 0.31% and 0.45% is considered extremely high and is associated with severe negative effects on the body, including the potential for permanent brain damage or death. At this level, the central nervous system becomes significantly depressed, impairing vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and temperature regulation. The severity of the impairment increases with higher levels of intoxication, leading to possible loss of consciousness, respiratory failure, and a risk of fatal overdose.

This range of BAC is often described as being in a state of deep unconsciousness or coma, where the individual may be unresponsive and have no control over basic life functions. Immediate medical intervention is typically required to address the life-threatening consequences of such a high BAC.

Lower BAC levels, such as those in the other answer choices, can cause impairment and intoxication, but do not typically reach the critical thresholds associated with severe neurological damage or mortality.