Georgia Zero Tolerance
Across the nation, more and more states have adopted “Zero Tolerance” policies. Georgia is certainly no exception. Zero tolerance laws are designed to keep minors from consuming alcohol and driving.
In Georgia, it is illegal for drivers over the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle with a BAC (blood alcohol content) of 0.08 percent or higher. However, for drivers under the age of 21, the legal limit is just 0.02 percent. Because the BAC level is so small, it would take very little alcohol to reach this level and be arrested for driving under the influence. Zero Tolerance was not designed to arrest you because you are intoxicated, but to arrest anyone under the legal age who has any amount of alcohol in his or her system.
In order to deter minors from drinking and driving, Georgia has enacted some very severe penalties. In criminal court, a minor who has been charged with DUI can be sentenced to jail time, probation, community service, hefty fines, vehicle impoundment, restricted interstate travel, and much more.
In addition to these criminal consequences, a minor may face civil penalties. Even before going to criminal court, the minor may be sentenced to an administrative license suspension by the Department of Public Safety. This driver’s license suspension will last up to six months.
There are other consequences that may occur as a result of underage drinking and driving. For example, your auto insurance rates may skyrocket, or your coverage may be cancelled. Having a DUI on your record may also make finding future employment extremely difficult.
If you are a minor who has been charged with driving under the influence and violating the Zero Tolerance law, dedicated Atlanta DUI attorney Frank Gomez can help you. His attorneys know the most effective ways to defend your DUI case. For example, the breath test may have picked up on breath mints or mouthwash, leading to a BAC over the legal limit.
You can fight your charges! To connect with Atlanta DUI defense attorney Frank Gomez, please fill out our convenient online form right now.
