Driving under the influence of alcohol can lead to harsh repercussions regardless of one’s age, but if you are a minor, you need to understand the different ways in which these allegations could shatter your life. Aside from penalties imposed by courts, young drivers accused of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated could face many other consequences, from problems within their families to challenges at school, high levels of stress and depression.
In fact, Tennessee’s zero-tolerance policy makes it especially easy for some young drivers to find themselves in this position, whether they do not realize they consumed a small amount of alcohol in a mixed drink or they face false allegations.
Underage drunk driving carries harsh penalties
According to Tennessee’s Department of Safety and Homeland Security, drivers between the ages of 16 and 20 charged with driving while impaired could face a number of different court-imposed penalties. For starters, they could lose their driving privileges for up to one year. Aside from license revocation, the court also imposes a fine and in some instances, young drivers accused of this offense have to perform public service work.
Addressing underage drunk driving charges
Even if you are able to deal with a fine and license revocation, this case could affect you in the years to come. For example, you could lose the ability to find a decent position in a particular field as a result of your record, and these charges could tarnish your reputation indefinitely. Make sure you handle your drunk driving case correctly and understand all of the options available to you.