Driving under the influence is a serious offense and a major safety threat. Not only does it endanger the person operating the vehicle but also poses a threat to the safety of other people on the road. While drunk driving carries some serious legal implications, it is considered an even worse offense if the person behind the wheel is underage. 

Encouraging responsible driving and safety on the road is vital, which is why zero tolerance law exists. In this article, we’ll be explaining the importance of zero tolerance law, what it is, how it works, as well as the consequences of violating it.

Definition and importance of zero tolerance law

This law prohibits the drivers under the age of 21 from operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. If an underage driver is caught operating a vehicle with any amount of alcohol present in their system, it will lead to them being charged with underage DUI. 

Underage drinking and driving is a serious offense that can lead to both short-term and long-term implications. These consequences may affect a young driver’s personal and professional life down the road. The zero tolerance law is put in place in order to discourage teenage drivers from operating a vehicle while intoxicated and encourage responsible decision making.

How zero tolerance law works

If the law enforcement officers detect any amount of alcohol in the underage driver’s system, the young driver will be immediately charged with an underage DUI. If their blood alcohol content (BAC) shows to be 0.08% or above, they risk being charged with adult DUI. 

The amount of alcohol present in their system is easily determined  through chemical tests. The law enforcement officers will use either a breathalyzer test or blood or urine tests to measure the amount of alcohol that is present. Out of these three types of tests , the blood test shows to be the most accurate one. While the driver has the option to refuse to take these tests, their refusal may lead to penalties.

How is underage DUI different from adult DUI

Underage drivers can be charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol content is 0.02% percent or higher. In contrast, the legal limit for an adult driver to be charged with a DUI is 0.08%. It is important to note that the consumption of even just one alcoholic beverage (or less)  is enough for the person’s blood alcohol concentration to reach 0.02%, which is the legal limit for underage drivers. 

Another important thing to keep in mind is that a teenage driver can be charged with DUI even with a blood alcohol content of 0.01% or even 0.00%. In other words, any detectable amount of alcohol in the driver’s system can put them at risk of being charged with underage DUI.  As an underage driver, your safest bet is to not consume any amount of alcohol at all if you intend to drive.

Legal implications of underage DUI 

The presence of alcohol in a driver’s system – regardless of its amount – signals that the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely and properly is significantly reduced. Alcohol impairment increases their chances of causing an accident and potentially injuring or killing themselves and/or other drivers. To minimize these safety risks, zero tolerance law imposes strict rules that, if violated, can lead to some severe, rather serious consequences. For starters, violating zero tolerance law and then being charged with an underage DUI almost always results in fines as well as license suspension. You may also be expected to enroll in an alcohol education program and install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle as a preventive measure. 

The severity of penalties will depend on whether this is your first time offense or a subsequent one. If a subsequent offense takes place within ten years, you can expect much higher fines and longer license suspension periods. In some cases, a prior DUI charge may also interfere with a person’s future employment If it leads to a  criminal record.

Ensuring the best possible legal outcomes with the help of reputable professionals

Underage drinking and driving is a serious problem that is present all across the states. Laws such as zero tolerance laws aim to address this common problem and combat the dangers of reckless behavior. 

In case you or a loved one gets charged with underage DUI, do not hesitate to partner with a reputable lawyer in your area. By protecting driver’s rights, challenging evidence in court, and skilfully negotiating reductions, a seasoned professional can help minimize the impact a DUI can have on a young driver’s personal and professional life and secure the best possible legal outcomes.