Things Parents Can Do to Prevent Teenage Drunk Driving

Things Parents Can Do to Prevent Teenage Drunk Driving

When it comes to the consumption and possession of alcohol, Illinois is a Zero Tolerance state, but underage drinking is still rampant in teenagers, which most teens blame on negligent parents and ‘adventurous’ peers – a combination that can prove tragic on Illinois roads. Ensuring your teenager does not end up injuring or killing other individuals while under the influence of alcohol should be a top priority.
 
Parenting is not an exact science,but you can make sure your child remains safe and sober behind the wheel by following these tips:
 
1. Train Your Teenager to Handle Peer Pressure
Most teenagers succumb to pressure from peers and friends who drink and abuse other substances. As a parent, you can prevent this from happening by warning your teenager about the consequences of their action. This includes discussing them what they should do if they are being pressured to drink alcohol at parties and how to turn down a ride from someone who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
 
Most importantly, remind them that even if they do end up drinking or find themselves in a place where alcohol is being served, they can always count on your support or for a ride home.
 
2. Lead by Example
As a parent of an impressionable teenager, you should know better than to driving while drunk. Before even thinking about getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol, practice responsible alcohol consumption at home. In other words, don’t drink until you are inebriated and feel free to ask guests to do the same.
It may not seem like your teenagers model their behavior on you, but they do. If you reach for a beer or wine every time you are depressed or stressed, they will think to do the same. In other words, don’t make them think alcohol is a solution to mental health issues or you may eventually find them drunk and behind the wheel of a vehicle.
 
3. Get Involved
No matter how angry your teen may become by prying into their business, ignoring who they hang out with and where they go can lead to disaster. Pretty soon, they may find themselves taking your vehicle for a joy ride after stealing alcohol from your refrigerator. Earn their trust by getting involved in their lives. Attend PTA meetings, volunteer your services in school events they are a part of, etc. By doing this you can remain aware of their activities, who they are friends with – and all without alienating them. If you do see them drinking, keeping quite will only make them think you are fine with it. Immediately get involved – especially if they are approaching or are of driving age.
 
In the state of Illinois, anyone under the age of 21 found in possession of alcohol in a vehicle can be charged with $1,000 in fines and the driver will have his/her license suspended for up to a year. This includes drivers who are found to have a blood alcohol limit of 0.08% or higher. The key to understanding your conviction lies in understanding the charges brought against you.
 
If you or your teenager has been charged with a DUI in Palos Heights, Illinois get in touch with a DUI defense attorney at the law firm of Michael D. Ettinger and Associates. We can help you reduce your claim with aggressive representation in court.