Zero- tolerance laws for drunk driving make it illegal for drivers to operate a vehicle after consuming any amount of alcohol. These laws are very harsh. Drivers in California often wonder if the state has zero-tolerance laws for DUI offenders.
California does use zero-tolerance laws for some DUI cases. Review zero-tolerance charges here with the Simmrin Law Group. You can get help handling zero-tolerance allegations by calling us at (310) 896-2723 whenever you need legal advice.
California’s General DUI Regulations
Before we discuss zero-tolerance laws for DUI offenders, it is important that you understand California’s general DUI regulations. Statewide, drivers are expected to keep their blood alcohol content (BAC) below certain levels while operating a vehicle. You must keep your BAC below:
- 0.08% if you are a non-commercial driver over 21
- 0.04% if you are a commercial driver over 21
- 0.01% if you are a driver under 21
Drivers may be arrested for a DUI if their BAC exceeds the limits set by the state. Law enforcement officers can also arrest drivers who appear to be driving while impaired, even if their BAC is not over the legal limit.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Zero Tolerance Laws for DUIs in California
Many drivers in California are legally allowed to operate a vehicle with some alcohol in their system. However, there are two major exceptions to this regulation. California has zero-tolerance laws on the books for drivers:
- Under the age of 21
- On DUI probation
Drivers under the age of 21 are not legally allowed to drink alcohol at all. They are not allowed to get behind the wheel after consuming any amount of alcohol. Drivers on DUI probation may be legally allowed to drink, but they cannot operate a vehicle after drinking.
Criminal Charges for Under 21 DUIs
Drivers under the age of 21 can face a number of criminal charges if they drink and drive. Depending upon their BAC level, they may be charged under:
- California Vehicle Code Section 23136: Under 21 DUI with Any Measurable Amount of Alcohol
- California Vehicle Code Section 23140: Under 21 DUI with Blood Alcohol Content Between 0.05-0.07 Percent
VC 23136 and 23140 charges only apply to drivers under 21. Both of these charges can lead to a license suspension. A VC 23140 conviction can also result in fines. Additionally, drivers under 21 can face California’s general DUI charges if their BAC is at or above 0.08%.
Any under 21 DUI charges should be treated seriously in California. Speak to a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles right away after an arrest by calling (310) 896-2723.
Criminal Charges for a Subsequent DUI While on Probation
The court system can place drivers convicted of a DUI on probation for three-to-five years. While on probation, drivers must:
- Not drive after drinking any amount of alcohol
- Take any BAC tests ordered by a police officer
- Follow any other probation regulations
Drivers may be charged with a probation violation if they operate a vehicle after consuming any amount of alcohol. A judge may punish a probation violation in California by:
- Extending the amount of time an individual must spend on probation
- Adding more restrictions to an individual’s probation
- Sending a person to jail to serve out their sentence
Drivers can also face DUI charges if their BAC exceeds the state limits. Note that DUIs are priorable offenses in California. This means that the penalties for a conviction increase each time an individual is charged with a DUI.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Handle Zero Tolerance DUI Charges in California
You can get professional help handling a DUI accusation in California by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. Our team can help if you are charged with a general DUI or if you are facing zero-tolerance DUI regulations.
Allow us to focus on your defense right now. We can take steps to get your charges reduced or even dismissed in some situations. Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles are also prepared to take your case to court to fight for you.
A Legal Professional Can Help with Zero Tolerance DUI Laws
California does have zero-tolerance laws for DUI offenders under 21 and drivers on DUI probation. The Simmrin Law Group can help you build a strong defense to DUI charges right now. Contacting us is easy, just fill out our online contact form or call (310) 896-2723. We’re ready to review the unique factors of your case today.
Get a FREE initial case evaluation regarding your legal options from our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form