Teenage years are an important transition from childhood to adulthood. Teens are often eager to separate themselves from the influence of their parents and form their own opinions and ways of doing things. As many Denver parents know, as teens separate from parental influence, they sometimes succumb to peer pressure to do things parents would prefer that their children not do. Parents who have had a teenage son or daughter arrested for underage DUI would likely agree.
How Riding With an Impaired Driver Can Shape Later Behavior
Research published in the journal Pediatrics by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development examined data from roughly 2,500 students from 10th through 12th grade to understand how often teens rode as passengers with impaired drivers. Nearly a third of 10th graders reported having been in that situation, and researchers found that those who rode with a drunk driver in 10th grade were substantially more likely to get behind the wheel while impaired themselves by 12th grade.
The takeaway for parents is that exposure to impaired driving as a passenger, even without direct encouragement, can normalize the behavior and increase the likelihood a teen will eventually drive impaired themselves.
What Parents Should Know About Underage DUI
For parents whose child has been arrested for underage DUI, there are a few important things to understand. First, the legal threshold is different for minors. In Colorado, a blood alcohol content as low as .02 percent can result in a conviction for someone under 21, compared to the .08 percent threshold that applies to drivers 21 and older.
Just as important is the long-term impact. An underage DUI conviction can follow a young person well into adulthood, affecting things like college applications, employment opportunities, and insurance rates. This is why many parents choose to work with an attorney experienced in underage DUI cases to help their family navigate the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Underage DUI in Colorado
What BAC counts as a DUI for a driver under 21 in Colorado?
A blood alcohol content as low as .02 percent can result in a conviction for drivers under 21, a much lower threshold than the .08 percent standard that applies to adult drivers.
Can an underage DUI conviction affect my child’s future?
Yes. An underage DUI conviction can appear on background checks and potentially affect college applications, job opportunities, and insurance rates well into adulthood.
Does riding with an impaired driver increase a teen’s own risk later?
Research suggests it can. Teens who rode with an impaired driver earlier in high school were found to be more likely to drive while impaired themselves by their senior year.
What should we do if my teen is arrested for underage DUI?
Speaking with an attorney experienced in underage DUI cases as soon as possible can help you understand the charges, the process, and the options available for your family’s specific situation.
Written by
Shazam KianpourDenver Criminal Defense Attorney & Founder, Shazam Kianpour & Associates, P.C. — Over 10,000 criminal and traffic cases handled across Colorado.