Anyone who is found driving with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or above is considered over the legal limit of sobriety. There are various ways that law enforcement officials assess a driver's level of intoxication, but may rely on chemical tests to produce that a percentage. BAC is a measurement of just how much alcohol is in that person's blood stream.The law believes that if you are over the legal limit, then the law believes that you will not be able to safely operate a vehicle and pose a threat to others' safety if they take to the road. BAC laws apply mainly to drivers aged 21 and above. How much more stringent are the rules if the drivers involved are underage?Zero Tolerance Laws in TexasThe penalties for driving while intoxicated vary from state to state. Some states have strict guidelines and will lay down heavy punishments for what might be a minor offense in another state. In Texas, our laws are some of the toughest across the nation.Texas law does not underage lightly. Zero Tolerance is exactly that: there are no exceptions. Anyone underage who is caught drinking and driving can be arrested, even for only a drop of alcohol found in their system.The penalties for underage drinking and driving are as follows:Up to $500 fine60-day driver's license suspension20 to 40 hours mandatory community serviceParticipation in alcohol awareness classesA second offense may carry the following penalties:Fine up to $500120-day driver's license suspension40 to 60 hours of mandatory community serviceParticipation in alcohol awareness classesNot eligible for an occupational license in the first 90 daysA third or subsequent offense can carry the following penalties:180-day driver's license suspensionFine from $500 to $2, 000, orJail for up to 180 daysAs you can see, the penalties will only enhance. If you or a loved one has been arrested for underage drinking and driving, it is vital that you act now to begin your defense. At the Law Office of David Sloan, our Fort Worth DWI lawyer can help protect both your rights and your future.Get more than 20 years of experience on your side. Contact the firm today for a free case review: (817) 349-7118.
