How Does Being Under The Age of 21 Affect A DUI Charge

If after this initial arrest, they are found to be driving while intoxicated again, they will lose their license for a longer period of time. If anyone under the age of 21 is found to have alcohol in their system while driving then they will have their license suspended for at least three months if not longer. 

Having their license suspended is not the only repercussion that individuals can face if they decide to drink and drive while underage. For example, the When you’re under the age of 21, it is easy to think that you’re invincible. But while you do have your whole life in front of you, you also need to remember to follow the law and be cautious. One way young people under the age of 21 should be cautious is by avoiding drinking and driving because of the negative repercussions it can have on their future. In the article, McClintock Law is going to explain the risks of getting a DUI while under the age of 21 and how the charge can affect someone’s future. 

Why is it Worse if I’m Under the Age of 21?

When an individual is under the age of 21, they can face severe repercussions for driving under the influence. This is because anyone under the age of 21 cannot legally drink. Therefore, if the individual has any alcohol in their system while driving they could be facing multiple charges. It is important for people under the age of 21 to avoid drinking alcohol because they are not legal, and they could face serious repercussions especially if they are operating a vehicle. 

What is Zero Tolerance Law?

  In Illinois, there is a zero-tolerance law when it comes to underage drinking and driving. This means that if the driver is under the age of 21, and they are intoxicated, they will be facing legal repercussions. There are several different ways that these repercussions can be felt and could potentially play out. 

The first thing to know is that any driver under the age of 21 that has alcohol in their system will lose their driving privileges. If the driver is facing a DUI conviction which is when their BAC is at 0.08 or above, then they will lose their license for a minimum of two years. Additionally, if the driver is stopped for a traffic violation, and any alcohol is found in their system (their BAC is higher than 0.00 but lower than 0.08) then they will have their license suspended for at least three months.driver may be required to take driving remedial education courses so that they can regain their license. In some cases, they may even have to retake their driving test and be issued a new driver’s license. If a driver is under the age of 21 and gets convicted of a DUI, it can have long-term legal ramifications that can affect them for years to come.

Will it Affect College Admissions?

A DUI conviction can have a large impact on the college admissions process for students. Many colleges and universities may look and see if a student has a criminal record.  If a DUI offense appears on an applicant’s record, it raises concerns about the individual’s judgment, responsibility, and their willingness to follow the law. The university may have more concerns about admitting a student into their programs. 

While a DUI conviction alone does not automatically mean a student will not get into a university, it could make it much less likely. Yet it’s important that students remain accountable for actions. To do this successfully they should demonstrate personal growth and highlight any steps taken to address the issue. This may include participating in community service, attending counseling or substance abuse programs, and providing a well-written explanation of the circumstances surrounding the DUI incident.

Ultimately, the impact of a DUI on college admissions can differ among institutions, as each college has its own set of policies. If a student does have a DUI on their record, it is important that they are truthful with college admissions and do proper research to see how it’ll affect their admissions process. While a DUI can affect a student’s college application process, they may still be able to get into a reputable college.

How Will it Affect Insurance Rates?

Getting a DUI under the age of 21 can have a large impact on auto insurance rates. Insurance companies consider driving under the influence as high-risk behavior, and young drivers with a DUI on their record are viewed as more likely to engage in reckless driving. As a result, insurance providers often categorize individuals with a DUI conviction as high-risk drivers, which can lead to large increases in insurance premiums.

Since the driver is already under the age of 21, they will already have an increased insurance rate compared to other drivers because they are already considered at-risk drivers. If they get convicted of a DUI, then they can expect their insurance rates to increase by at least two to three times as much. This can be a large financial burden on the individual, or their guardians if they still live with them. These increased insurance rates can last for several years, in fact, it can affect their insurance rates for up to five years. To avoid these incredibly high insurance rates, it’s important for individuals to avoid drunk driving and demonstrate that they are not high-risk drivers. 

Key Takeaways:

If a driver is under the age of 21, and they face a DUI conviction they face several legal and societal consequences. 

1. In the United States, it it illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to drink alcohol which is why they often face more harsh legal repercussions. 
2. In Illinois, the law for drivers under the age of 21 driving is zero tolerance, which means that no matter what the driving will be facing legal consequences for their actions. 
3. A DUI conviction can affect someone’s ability to get into college because it may appear on their criminal record or become necessary to disclose during the admissions process.
4. Insurance rates can also increase dramatically if someone under the age of 21 gets a DUI conviction which can be a financial burden for them and their families.

No matter who is facing a DUI charge, it is important that they hire a reputable and trustworthy lawyer who is willing to work with them through their case. That’s exactly what we offer at McClintock Law, we’re a team of dedicated attorneys that will help our clients work through their case. So the next time you’re in a tough spot, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! Our number is (309)715-7181 or you can visit our website at https://www.scottmcclintocklaw.com/.