Many people use alcohol before they reach the age of 21. In some respects, it’s a rite of passage for young people in the United States. However, drinking under the age of 21 is still illegal, as is driving while inebriated.
California takes a tough stance against drunk driving, especially among minors. If you’re under the age of 21, the law is different in numerous ways, making it more possible that you’ll break the law and facing serious penalties.
If you’re under the age of 21, the best course of action is to avoid drinking alcohol or, if you do, to never drive. If you are caught for a DUI, however, you should contact a skilled DUI attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer can examine your case and come up with the strongest factual and legal defenses for you, as well as negotiate a good settlement on your behalf.
California’s drunk driving laws for minors
If you are under the age of 21, you are subject to the harsh zero tolerance statute in California. This implies that a person under the age of 21 has a legal blood alcohol content (BAC) level of .01 percent, whilst someone above the age of 21 has a legal limit of .08 percent. It also means you can’t refuse to undergo a roadside breathalyzer test, and depending on how inebriated you are, you might face extra charges.
One of the most difficult parts of California’s zero tolerance DUI legislation is that you will be prosecuted with a DUI if your blood alcohol concentration is increased owing to any drug, even medicine. It doesn’t take much to get your BAC to .01 percent for most individuals. It might be as little as a single beer or mixed drink, if not less. Because the limit is so low, nearly any amount of alcohol consumed while driving can result in a DUI arrest.
If you are stopped on suspicion of driving while intoxicated while under the age of 21, you have forfeited a key right: the freedom to reject a roadside breathalyzer test. If you are 21 or older, you may usually inform officers that you will not take a breathalyzer unless you are on probation for DUI. If you are under the age of 21, however, you must take the test or risk extra penalties for refusing to take it or subsequent tests after you have been detained.
If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is significantly higher than the legal limit for young drivers, you may be charged with a normal (adult) DUI. When your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .05 percent or above, this happens. If you’re over 18, a DUI conviction might result in a one-year license suspension, a fine of up to $100, and three months or more of required DUI programs. Under the zero-tolerance statute, an underage DUI will result in a one-year license suspension.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI while under the age of 21, don’t take any chances. To learn more about how Chambers Law Firm can defend you against these accusations call 714-760-4088. Attorney Dan E. Chambers has a lot of experience dealing with DUI cases and knows how to get the best deal for his clients. Free consultations are always available!
