Driving is such a major part of our lives. In most areas, driving is practically a requirement. And getting a license gives a feeling of sudden freedom, doesn't it? It is perhaps the first thing that makes most of us FEEL like we are adults.
It's easy to forget that driving is a PRIVILEGE, not a right. Remember that these privileges can be suspended or revoked.
If you think about it, you were granted a license because the tests you took showed you are capable of driving without harming anyone. Alcohol aside for a moment, consider this ...
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration keeps a lot of statistics on drivers and accidents.
Did you know that 7% of all licensed drivers are between15 and 20 years old, but 15% of all fatal crashes involve the same age group? According to these numbers, you are actually twice as likely to die in a car crash than adults 21 and over.
And while most 'grown-ups' may not know those exact numbers, they all recognize the extra risk you face when you drive.
Ever wonder why your driving is watched so closely by your parents, neighbors, and local police? They all know that when you drive away, there is a small chance you won't come back! That's why if you drive, you can't take even one sip.
Not one sip! That's pretty tough, but if you give in to drinking and driving, and you get caught, it gets MUCH tougher.
… and you are arrested for DUI, your penalties will be worse than if you were over 21.
The facts are simple. It is far easier for you to be arrested for DUI than your parents. For you, all it takes is a sip!
The BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) measure of .08 means a lot to adults. It represents a line in the sand. Cross it, and you could be in big trouble.
If you are under 21, the BAC measurement you must avoid is anything above ZERO. Every State in America has a Zero Tolerance Law. Since it is illegal for you to drink alcohol if you are under 21, then having ANY alcohol in your system when you drive will get you arrested for DUI.
A DUI at any age will mess with your LICENSE, your INSURANCE, and your SCHOOL or JOB. But penalties for drunk driving everywhere are HARSHER on teens. MORE jail, HIGHER fines, LONGER license suspension, the list goes on.
Oh, and things won't be so smooth at home either.