Drinking and driving is a serious offense for anyone. In a report filed by the state of Indiana, over 4,000 DUIs were cited in 2015, which includes both misdemeanor and felony-level charges.
Any type of DUI charge should be fought against. It becomes particularly important when the person getting charged is younger than 21 years old. In these situations, a different set of laws is applied.
First offense
For adults over 21 years old, any blood alcohol content level of 0.08 or over results in a DUI. However, for those younger than 21, that BAC level goes down to 0.02.
When minors have a BAC between 0.02 and 0.08, they will most likely have to pay a fine and face license suspension. In the event the BAC is over 0.08 for a minor, then going to prison is on the table. A minor could end up in jail even after a first offense.
After a minor’s first DUI, it may be impossible to secure car insurance the following year. Even if it is still available, there will be a hefty increase in monthly payments.
Second offense
For a second conviction within five years of the first, a minor could face between five days and three years in jail. There may also be a fine and license suspension of up to two years.
Other possible charges
When minors are caught drinking and driving, a DUI may not be the only charge applied. A minor could also face the following charges:
- Possession of fake identification if alcohol was acquired via a fake I.D.
- Child endangerment
- Distribution of alcohol to minors
- Solicitation of alcohol
No one should operate a vehicle while intoxicated, and minors need to think about their futures well before getting behind the wheel of a car drunk. The consequences are far too great, and it is never worth it.
