2 Things You Should Know About Underage DUI
You can get a DUI if caught driving under the influence of substances, although you are underage. Drunk driving is a criminal offense as it puts you and other road users at risk. In this case, all states have a zero-tolerance law that helps curb drunk driving among underage drivers.
Discover two facts you should know about underage DUI laws and their consequences.
1. DUI Laws
Across the United States, every motorist, regardless of age, can get convicted of a DUI while driving under the influence of drugs. The DUI law applies to underage drivers, as driving under the influence is a criminal offense.
Additionally, underage drivers are subject to zero-tolerance laws which apply to individuals below 21 years. Specifically, minors shouldn't drive even with the smallest amount of alcohol in the blood system.
2. DUI Consequences
Some of the underage DUI consequences include:
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Suspension of your driving license
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Probation
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Community service
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Jail time
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Mandatory alcohol lessons
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Fines
Also, an underage may face penalties depending on the circumstances of the case and the state laws.
Some measures imposed on a minor after a DUI conviction are corrective. For example, community service and mandatory alcohol lessons instill knowledge and discipline concerning underage driving.
The department of motor vehicles imposes administrative penalties following an underage DUI. In this case, your license gets suspended if the alcohol in the body exceeds the zero-tolerance limit. Nonetheless, suspension varies with time, and individuals who resist the blood test may have their license suspended for extended periods.
Administrative penalties depend on the report following the arrest if an officer shows that you violated the zero-tolerance law. In some cases, you may not go to court for conviction.
While this may lessen the consequences, you'll face other consequences. In such cases, if you want to challenge an administrative suspension of your license, ensure that you consult with a DUI lawyer to lessen the extent of the consequence.
Courts can also impose criminal penalties, and the consequences vary compared to standard DUI charges. However, DUI charges may affect your university application scholarships and financial aid.
Conclusion
If you're a minor who gets arrested for a DUI, you should contact a qualified DUI lawyer to communicate any concerns that you might have regarding the case. Also, a DUI attorney helps you through the legal process to lower the penalties and clear your records. So, go ahead and contact a local DUI attorney law firm today.