Driving is a privilege and not a right, and the state of Georgia holds the keys to that right.
Younger drivers from 15 to 20 have a statistically higher risk of dying in a car accident, and collisions are the number one cause of death for those in that age group. In one calendar year, 136 drivers died and another 193 others suffered fatal injuries from wrecks in Georgia that involved drivers under 21.
When alcohol is added into the mix for underage drinkers, the hazards are even higher. Even if no accident results from an episode, there is zero tolerance in Georgia for underage drinking and driving. Those drivers whose blood-alcohol content is higher than .08 will have their drivers’ licenses suspended for a year if convicted of first-time DUI.
There is no doubt that Athens is known as a party town due to the youthful exuberance of its students, whether they are celebrating a football win or getting through finals. However, a conviction for DUI can derail even the most promising of careers. It can be impossible for those pursuing some types of professions like nursing to be licensed in the state once they have racked up a drug or DUI conviction.
No student wants to be the cause of an auto fatality or to mar an unblemished record with a conviction for underage drinking and driving. It is important to remember if you are stopped by the police that you should exercise your constitutional rights to remain silent and refrain from self-incrimination. Wait until you are alone with your criminal defense attorney before discussing the particulars of your situation.
Source: State of Georgia Department of Driver Services, “Teen Drivers,” accessed Nov. 06, 2015