What Does Zero Tolerance Mean?

Driving under the influence, DUI, is a serious charge. Alcohol is measured in the body using various methods including breath, urine, and blood tests. The legal limit in Florida is 0.08% blood alcohol concentration or BAC. This is the limit for drivers over the age of 21. However, drivers under the age of 21 are subject to a zero tolerance law.

What is Zero Tolerance?

The legal drinking age is 21. Therefore, anyone under the age of 21 who has been found to have been drinking has broken the law. This means that a driver under the age of 21, who has been found to have any alcohol in the system, has committed a crime. For example, a 20 year old driver has been stopped for a traffic offense and is tested for DUI. Even if the test indicates the driver is below the legal limit of 0.08%, he may still be charged because some alcohol was detected.

Impaired Driving

Impaired driving may occur due to a number of circumstances. A police officer will use several methods to determine whether a driver may be impaired. These include visual observation, field sobriety tests, breath tests, and blood tests. The officer will observe behavior as well as eye or speech problems that may be an indication of the use of drugs or alcohol. If a driver is thought to be impaired the officer will take additional steps to make a determination.

DUI Charges

DUI charges need to be taken seriously. They can come with some penalties that may be severe. These penalties could impact your ability to drive as well as cause you time and money. If you have been charged with DUI it is necessary to speak with an experienced DUI attorney as quickly as possible. Your lawyer will review your case and determine the best defense to present. Your attorney will represent you throughout the proceedings and will always protect your best interest. Consult with a lawyer as soon as you have been charged to get the top achievable outcome.