Tampa DUI Attorneys
Administrative Suspension of Persons Under the Age of 21 for Driving With an Alcohol Level .02 or Above
If a Tampa, Florida law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe that a driver under the age of 21 is operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, the officer may detain the driver and request that they submit to a chemical test to determine their blood alcohol or breath alcohol level. This violation is not considered a traffic infraction or a criminal offense, and being detained under this statute does not constitute an arrest.
A driver under 21 who is detained and found to have an alcohol level of .02% or greater shall face license suspension for 6 months, for a first offense. A second or subsequent violation may result in a 1 year suspension.
A driver under the age of 21 who refuses to submit to a breath test will face driver's license suspension for 1 year. A second or subsequent refusal will result in an 18 month suspension.
If a driver under 21 has a breath or blood alcohol level that is .05% or greater, driver's license suspension will stay in effect until the driver completes a substance abuse evaluation and course. The officer will issue the driver a temporary permit, effective 12 hours after it has been issued, which will be valid for 10 days.
Under 21 DUI Lawyers in Tampa, Florida
The laws and regulations regarding under 21 drivers and DUI are different. As such, it is important to work with an attorney who understands how to deal with underage drinking and driving, who can provide aggressive and effective representation at all aspects of a case. This includes representation in administrative proceedings, such as at a DMV hearing regarding license suspension.
Contact a Tampa DUI lawyer at our firm to see how we can protect your rights in the face of an under 21 DUI accusation.