For those who plan to get behind the wheel during spring break in Tennessee, it's typically a good idea to first become acquainted with state traffic laws, especially those pertaining to DUI. This doesn't imply you or your friends intend to drive drunk while celebrating your time off from school; however, unexpected situations often develop where college students and partying are at hand. So, it's typically a good idea to do a little research ahead of time because it might help avoid complications if a problematic situation arises.
Drunk driving is not a mere traffic violation. It is a crime, and being convicted of such often has devastating effects, not only on one's college career but personal life and future as well.
This state has a zero-tolerance policy
Each state has its own laws and guidelines regarding driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Tennessee law includes the following factors:
- Any person whose tested blood alcohol content level registers at .08 or above is presumed intoxicated.
- If BAC results are .20 or higher, penalties under conviction are typically much more severe.
- If you are convicted of this crime between ages 16 and 20, you are likely to incur a one-year driver license revocation, as well as a substantial fine.
- As part of a zero-tolerance policy, any driver under age 21 with a blood alcohol content level of .02 can be convicted of driving under the influence.
If you happen to get pulled over, it's generally wise to remain as calm as possible even if you've had a glass of wine or beer; yet, there is a possibility you'll wind up facing charges if the officer claims to have probable cause to suspect you of drunk driving. In other words, if your stop was due to your tail light being out, you may or may not get a ticket, then be freed to go.
If the officer asks you to exit your vehicle or mentions that your car was swerving over the yellow line, it's a sign your situation may be a bit more serious. Familiarizing oneself with Tennessee DUI laws ahead of time helps a motorist make more informed decisions on the spot if asked to take field sobriety tests or submit to a chemical test of some sort. Although such situations often stall spring break fun, assistance from an experienced attorney can help mitigate circumstances and get vacation back on track.