What You Need To Know About Teenage DUI Charges
Teenagers often drink and drive, and they also are subject to DUI charges. The rules for driving drunk are different for minors. Furthermore, the penalties for an underage DUI are also different from what you would expect for an adult DUI charge. Here's a look at some of the rules on teenage DUI charges.
Zero Tolerance Laws
Many states apply zero-tolerance laws for underage DUIs. This means a person under the age of 21 who tests positive for alcohol consumption while driving will be charged with drunk driving. If you're under 18 years and you're found guilty of drunk driving, the court will try you as a juvenile.
In some states, minors are allowed to plead to lesser charges or even get their charges dropped if they meet certain conditions. These DUI diversion programs involve spending time in a juvenile detention center and community service. You may also have to pay fines. Consult a DUI attorney to determine the laws that apply to your state and to work out your case, so you can plead to lesser charges.
BAC Levels for Underage Drivers
In states that don't follow zero-tolerance laws, the BAC limit for underage drunk driving is between .01%-.02%. This means if a teenager takes just one drink, they'll exceed this BAC limit. Apart from the conditions of DUI diversion programs, a minor charged with a DUI in these states may have to participate in an alcohol abuse treatment program.
Additionally, the accused may have to attend driving safety classes. The court may also ask the offender to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. The penalties are more severe for repeat offenders. Make sure you involve a DUI attorney in your case to have your charges and penalties reduced.
Consequences for Failing to Take Alcohol Tests
Minor who refuses to go through alcohol tests may lose their driving license. In some states, a minor may face driver's license suspension for up to 3 years for failing to take an alcohol test. These states use the implied consent principle. According to this concept, when a person has a license to drive on public roads, it means that law enforcement agencies are legally permitted to test them for sobriety.
Therefore, failing to submit to testing is the same as accepting that you were driving under the influence of alcohol. The police officers can use other evidence to prove you were driving under the influence. This includes the smell of alcohol in your breath, slurred speech, and erratic driving.
If a minor fails to submit to testing and is guilty for a DUI, they'll get a consecutive license suspension for refusal to take the test and for drunk driving. If you refuse to take an alcohol test, make sure you consult a DUI lawyer to argue your case.
Share