One major problem in our community is drunk driving. Now that most teens are getting their driver licenses, it’s really important that they remain be cautious and learn some laws that have to do with DUI, driving under the influence, or DWI, driving while intoxicated. Drivers need to know the penalties of driving under the influence depending on their state.

For example in California, the California Vehicle Code, 23140, it states, “It’s unlawful for a person under the age of 21 years 0.5 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.”

The penalties can include driver’s license suspension and mandatory attendance in a DUI prevention program. Driving while intoxicated is fatally dangerous. Many cases occur every day at least 28 people die in the United States resulting from a driver being intoxicated. 1 crash in every 53 minutes. These are not statistics involving teenage drunk driving, but they are related.

Teens who drive while under the influence are also more likely to be in an accident than adults who drive while intoxicated. Experts believe this is because teens have less driving experience and often overestimate their driving abilities. Teens also engage in more risk-taking behaviors, such as speeding, according www.learn-about-alcoholism.com. This affects our community because now most of our young adults are getting their driver’s license or permit and they need to learn that it is a big responsibility.

Some safety tips include being responsible, choosing a designated driver before you go out and make sure that person doesn’t consume any alcohol of any kind, if the designated driver slips, then call a taxi, don’t be afraid to take a drunk person’s car keys. To avoid and detect drunk drivers include watching a driver if they’re drifting and swerving on the road, almost striking a vehicle or object, responding to traffic lights slowly, making any illegal driving methods, or stopping without cause. Keep in mind of all of these signs and to avoid be sure to stay in a safe distance and dial 9-1-1. Stay safe!