Speak Up! - View Question #5

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Question: Can you get in trouble for being in a car if the driver is drunk but you aren't?

Answer: Yes, lots, but probably not what you are asking about. First, the driver can crash, causing you bodily harm or death. Second, the driver can be arrested, and you may then be stuck in a strange part of town with no way to get home, perhaps late at night. Third, if the driver is busted under circumstances that seem to indicate that the driver and you were part of some criminal act, attempted or actual, then you can be prosecuted for that.

Remember, people who are under the influence of alcohol or other drugs do dumb things, and if you are with them then you are associated with these things, even if you weren't drinking.

If there are circumstances in the situation that indicate to the police that you may be delinquent under the law, then all sorts of unpleasant things can happen.

It is not a crime to be in a car with an intoxicated driver. However, for a minor it can turn into a real hassle, and very quickly.


Comments
6 thru 9 of 9 comments
On 10/03/02
Kyra from AZ said:
Why why WHHYYY would you get in a car with a drunk driver?? I would not be worried about "being in trouble", I'd worry about BEING KILLED!! And the aunt and uncle are WRONG making a teen with a permit their designated driver. It's hard to believe how stupid some adults can be sometimes.
On 08/23/02
Sam from Othe said:
Dear Osco, I am Canadian but my brother has a permit in the states, and yes, the passenger must be awake, below the BAC limit, and must be alert.
On 06/19/02
Osco from AZ said:
I have had my permit now for about 3 months now. My aunt and uncle like to have me drive for them when we come home from resturaunts because then they can have a drink or two. They place me as the designated driver. They are responsible when they drink and they don't intoxicate themselves beyond control. Is that leagal? Does the person in the passenger seat have to be under the leagal limit of B.A. ? Do they even have to be awake?
On 03/28/02
valerie from AZ said:
You foolish drivers shouldn't be drinking especially when having a passenger in the automobile!!!For you passengers this is what I say to you.You should not be in a car where the driver is under the influence of alcohol!!!
6 thru 9 of 9 comments



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