As the school year nears the finish line in Sarasota and Manatee counties, exciting milestones are on the books, like prom – which many high schools celebrated in April – and the many graduations held throughout this month. For every parent, student and family, proud moments not only come with excitement but also a dangerous temptation: underage drinking and driving.
The reality is that all it takes is one poor decision to create a devastating accident with serious legal and lifelong consequences affecting both teens and their parents. In fact, a fourth of fatal teen auto accidents involve alcohol, according to the Florida Teen Safe Driving Coalition. As your family heads into a memorable end to the school year, consider these facts about underage drinking and driving and tips to ensure they make responsible decisions for their future.
Have the Conversation Ahead of Time: It’s important that your student knows that you and your entire family have zero tolerance for consuming alcohol, especially behind the wheel. The consequences for making such a decision are real and can affect your teen immediately. Florida has a “Zero Tolerance Law” stating that drivers under the age of 21 with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .02 or higher may have their license suspended, face fines, and need to attend mandatory substance abuse courses – and your insurance premium will likely rise substantially.
Your Teen Is Watching – Be a Good Example: As a parent, your teen is always paying attention to your actions and how you handle situations. Not only should you wear your seatbelt and avoid texting or talking on the phone while driving but also be a role model by limiting your drinking and never drive under the influence. Practice open communication within your family and take the time to get to know your student’s friends. Be a resource and a strong, firm figure they can turn to, especially in their high school years as peer pressure becomes extremely prevalent.
There Are Consequences for Giving In: Parents may assume that hosting a party where alcohol is served is a safe alternative, supervising their teen and their friends’ consumption in a “controlled” environment. That’s simply not the case, opening the door to dangerous scenarios. Under Florida’s “Social Host Liability Law,” the adults can face charges and be held liable for damages if a guest is injured, involved in a fight or decides to drive and causes an accident.
As a Parent, You Can Face Legal Action: There are a number of ways you can be held liable aside from the scenarios mentioned above. If a parent knows what their teen has planned for the night, involving alcohol, and is aware of who they’re with, the parent can face legal action. In fact, this could be considered “contributing to the delinquency of a minor.” Always know where your teens are, who they’re with and teach them to value their life – and the lives of those around them – by making responsible choices.
If You’re Injured, We Can Fight for You
Our local law firm is not only a resource – we’re ready to step in the ring for our community. If you or your teen are ever injured in an accident because of someone else’s wrong decision to drink and drive, call Gallagher & Hagopian after you’ve sought medical help. When it comes to taking back your life, we believe your fight is our fight.