Getting pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving is stressful for anyone, but teen drivers can unintentionally worsen the situation. Saying or doing the wrong thing when dealing with the police could escalate things.
You may know how to protect your rights in a police encounter, but does your teen? Teach them to respond appropriately to the police if stopped for drunk driving or any reason.
Explain the stakes
Emphasize the potentially severe consequences of a juvenile drunk driving conviction, including expensive fines, license suspension and potential jail time for older youths.
Explain their rights
Like adults, teens have rights during a traffic stop. They are not obligated to answer police questions. Urge them to politely refuse police questions (other than their name and address) without representation. Urge them to pay attention to police actions. If an officer violates your teen’s rights, it could mitigate their circumstances.
Explain the risks
Teach your teen to keep their nerves in check during a DUI stop. Fear and anxiety can lead to accidental admissions of guilt and other complications. Let them know they are not required to (and should not) admit to consuming alcohol or drugs.
Explain the process
When minors are taken into police custody, law enforcement must follow strictly enforced procedures. For instance, teen offenders cannot be jailed alongside adults. Instead, they must be taken to a juvenile facility or released to a parent, custodian or guardian.
The knowledge and recommendations here can empower your teen driver to manage a drunk driving stop with confidence, potentially avoiding penalties or reducing their impact. Legal guidance can help you explore all avenues to mitigate your child’s situation.