Rhode Island Zero Tolerance Laws

Federal law says that no person under the age of 21 is allowed consume alcohol, with very few exceptions allowed when in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. In regard to a person under 21 drinking and driving, many states, including Rhode Island, have zero tolerance laws. Zero tolerance laws state that it is illegal for people under the age of 21 to drive with alcohol their system because it is illegal for them to drink in the first place.

The National Highway Systems Designation Act is a federal law that includes provisions about zero tolerance by which all states must abide. In all states:

• Zero tolerance laws apply to everyone under the age of 21.
• .02 or less is the legal limit, set to allow for errors and variation in testing instruments.
• There is no need to prove intoxication if the person under the age of 21 has a .02 or higher BAC.

Penalties for violating these laws vary depending on the state. Rhode Island has different penalties for underage intoxicated drivers depending on if the driver is under the age of 18 or is between 18 and 21 years old. The penalties also depend on whether the driver is a first time, second time, or multiple offender. For those under the age of 18, penalties can include community service, driver’s license suspension, enrollment in treatment or awareness programs, fines, and time in a juvenile correctional facility. For those over 18 but under 21, penalties are similar but usually more severe.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with DUI, you need an experienced drunk driving lawyer to handle your case in court. Contact the offices of Rhode Island DUI lawyer James Powderly at 401-662-9006 to schedule a free initial consultation.