If drunk driving charges arise and you are under the age of 21, or your child faces these allegations, it is vital to understand the possible repercussions of the case. In addition, young drivers who have not reached the legal drinking age should also realize that the legal limit for drivers under 21 is much lower.
Sometimes, drivers do not realize that a single drink can place them over the legal limit and lead to serious consequences that could jeopardize their future.
What is the legal limit for drivers under 21?
According to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, the legal limit for drivers younger than 21 years is .02. Therefore, a minor found to have a blood alcohol concentration level of .02 or higher could find themselves charged with DUI. This is much lower than the legal limit for drivers over 21 (.08).
As a result, some young drivers face DUIs unexpectedly. Consuming a very small amount of alcohol on an empty stomach could put a driver over .02, and some drivers do not realize that certain drinks contain alcohol or understand how long it takes for alcohol to leave their system.
What are the penalties for DUI cases involving drivers under 21?
For starters, young drivers can face devastating court-imposed penalties, such as a steep fine and even the possibility of time behind bars. They could lose their driving privileges and face a 12-month delay with respect to their graduated license. It is also important to focus on other consequences, such as problems arising later on due to your record.