Underage drinking and driving is a serious offense that comes with significant legal consequences. In Arizona, drivers under the age of 21 are held to strict laws when it comes to alcohol consumption and driving. These penalties can vary depending on the blood alcohol content (BAC) and whether the individual has prior offenses. Let’s explore what those penalties might look like.
Arizona’s zero tolerance policy
Arizona follows a “zero tolerance” policy when it comes to underage drinking and driving. This means that any driver under 21 with a BAC of 0.01% or higher can face penalties. The penalties increase with higher BAC levels, just as they would for adults, but for minors, even the smallest amount of alcohol in the bloodstream can lead to trouble.
Penalties based on BAC level
For those under 21, penalties can range from fines to license suspension. A BAC of 0.01% to 0.07% will lead to a 2-year driver’s license suspension. If a BAC is found to be 0.08% or higher, the consequences become more severe, including a longer suspension and possible mandatory alcohol education classes.
In addition to the license suspension, fines can also be applied. These fines can vary, but they are generally set by the courts and will depend on the individual case.
Additional consequences for repeat offenders
If the individual has a prior record of underage drinking and driving offenses, they could face more severe penalties. These might include longer license suspensions, more significant fines, or even mandatory participation in a rehabilitation program. Repeat offenders may also face harsher penalties if they commit other alcohol-related offenses.
Underage drinking and driving carries serious penalties, but criminal defense may reduce consequences. A strong defense can help lessen penalties.
