What is the legal limit for drivers under age 21?

Posted on April 10, 2015 in Underage Drinking

In Arizona, accidents on the roads are all too common. No matter how careful you are, the chances are that at some point you may become embroiled in an accident, even if it was not your fault. As a result, you and any other drivers involved could be asked to submit to a number of tests to determine your blood alcohol concentration. In general, as long as this is below the legal limit of 0.08 percent, you should be in the clear. However, there are some exceptions.

Commercial drivers are subject to stricter controls than other road users. However, facing even tighter restrictions than them are those drivers who are under the legal drinking age. Due to concerns about the number of fatalities of youths aged 15 to 20 in road accidents connected with alcohol abuse, severe limits are enforced throughout the United States.

In many places the limit is 0.02 percent or even lower. However, in multiple states a zero tolerance law is enforced, meaning that a driver under age 21 who is found to have any alcohol in their system at all can be considered intoxicated and charged with drunk driving.

This can have extremely serious implications for the driver’s future. College plans, employment prospects and even plans that simply rely on having a driver’s license can all be overturned by a DUI conviction. If you are faced with charges of this nature, a good defense is critical. An attorney may be able to advise you on your options and help you find the best course of action to take.