Underage drinking and driving is a serious issue that can have life-altering consequences for teens and their families. While you may want to trust your teen, the reality is that they often face peer pressure and can make poor decisions regarding alcohol and driving. Thanks to Texas’ strict laws against underage drunk drivers, it’s easier for teens to get into serious legal trouble for drinking and driving.
Texas zero-tolerance rules for teen drivers
Texas maintains a firm stance against any alcohol consumption for anyone under the age of 21. Your teen can face arrest for having even trace amounts of alcohol in their system while driving. While adult drivers face penalties at .08% blood alcohol content (BAC), underage drivers risk charges for driving under the influence (DUI) at as low as .02% BAC.
How one drink can affect drivers
A .02% BAC level might not seem like much. However, it can already impair your vision, judgment, and coordination. In short, even this much is enough to risk your teen’s safety and others on the road.
Depending on the person’s weight and other factors, a single drink can push their BAC level up to .02%. For someone weighing around 200 pounds, a red solo cup of beer is enough for that level of intoxication. If your teenager weighs less, their BAC level may reach .05%.
Consequences of underage drinking and driving
Even a first-time offense creates challenges for your teenager’s daily life, education and future opportunities. A first-time underage DUI conviction in Texas typically results in:
- Fines up to $500
- Driver’s license suspension for 60 days
- 20 to 40 hours of community service
- Mandatory alcohol education classes
Moreover, these penalties increase if your teen’s blood alcohol level reaches 0.08% or above.
Protecting the future of minor drivers
Discussing DUI consequences early can help your teen avoid dangerous situations and make better choices. The safest alcohol driving limit is zero—and the state’s zero-tolerance laws for underage drivers reflect that.
If the worst still happens and they face charges for underage DUI, it is prudent to consult a qualified attorney. Early legal intervention may lead to better outcomes and help protect your teen’s future opportunities.