Zero Tolerance Law

Alcohol and Drugs have become fashion statements among the youth of today. Rash driving, Robbery, Rape and Gang violence- all are considered cool and adventurous. The number one problem that all American States and their other developed counterparts are facing is the vast increase in automobile crashes due to increased cases of DWI (i.e. driving while intoxicated with alcohol or drugs). This has become the leading cause of disability and death in lots of youngsters. To combat this problem, the government has brought into existence the 'Zero Tolerance Law '.

Who does this law apply to ?

This law and its penalties apply to all drivers under the age of 21 and to all commercial drivers who have even a small trace of alcohol in their systems.

What does this law state ?

The normal DWI and DUI laws have a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) limit. If anyone shows signs above this limit, then they will be penalized. However, under the Zero tolerance law, drivers who

• are under 21 years of age or
• hold a Commercial Driver’s license (CDL) should have no trace of alcohol in their system. Their BAC limit should be zero and even if it is a point above that, they will be penalized.

What are the penalties ?

The penalties are listed below :

Youth below 21 years of age

If this is their first offence i.e. if this is the first time they are caught with a BAC above zero, they will face driver’s license suspension of 3 months. If they put up a fight and refuse to undergo testing or refuse to complete the testing, the suspension will be for six months. However, if this is their second offense, then they will face a license suspension for 1 year. If they refuse to undergo or complete testing the second time, then license will be suspended for two long years.

Commercial Drivers License

If this is the first offence, they will face a 12 month disqualification of CDL privileges. If this is the second offense, the driver will face a lifetime disqualification of CDL privileges. Though this law seems harsh, it is definitely a welcome move to make our roads smoother and safer.