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Is there a legal BAC for under 21?
Question:
Is there a legal BAC for under 21?
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Get Informed - DUI/DWI Law Information
We've got a large library of DUI and DWI law articles, Q&A's and other resources. Start here to learn about DUI laws, arrests, defense, penalties and more.
DUI Basics
Get the low down on the law and what you can expect if you're arrested and charged with a DUI.
Get the low down on the law and what you can expect if you're arrested and charged with a DUI.
Your DUI and the DMV
Besides the court and criminal charge the Department of Motor Vehicles will also bring you grief.
Besides the court and criminal charge the Department of Motor Vehicles will also bring you grief.
DUI Arrests, Police Reports, Arraignments, and Fees
After you're arrested, booked and released, you'll need to get ready for your arraignment.
After you're arrested, booked and released, you'll need to get ready for your arraignment.
DUI/DWI Charges and Penalties
After a DUI conviction expect fines, license suspension, DUI school, and sometimes jail.
After a DUI conviction expect fines, license suspension, DUI school, and sometimes jail.
Fighting a DUI
You may have options to lessen the sentence, get a reduced charge or get the case dismissed.
You may have options to lessen the sentence, get a reduced charge or get the case dismissed.
Getting Help with a DUI/DWI Charge
There are some things you can do yourself and some which require the help of an attorney.
There are some things you can do yourself and some which require the help of an attorney.
After being charged or hearing about cases of underage drunk driving many people wonder, “Is there a legal BAC for under 21?” The answer is, it depends.
Some state laws set low legal BAC limits for people under 21. When this happens, .02 is a common limit. You may be wondering why a person who is under the legal drinking age is allowed to have any alcohol in her system. The reason for this is that a person can have alcohol in her system as result of activities other than drinking alcoholic beverages. For example, taking certain cold and flu medications can raise a person’s BAC.
Other states have what are known as “zero tolerance” laws. This means that any amount of alcohol found in the system of a person who is under 21 and driving can be grounds for conviction of a DUI. Legislators in these states have decided that they do not care what circumstances may to even the slightest presence of alcohol, and judge often uphold those strict attitudes even when drivers attempt to present valid reasoning.
The penalties for underage DUI convicts can be just as harsh as or harsher than those for individuals who have reached the legal drinking age. If you a minor who is facing a DUI or the parent of a minor facing these charges, it is best to consult with an experienced drunk driving attorney in your state.
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