Regardless of how often parents tell them about the dangers of underage drinking, many high school kids experiment with alcohol. Teenagers think they are invincible. Sometimes they make a terrible judgment call and get behind the wheel of a car after drinking.
This one incident has the potential to derail their future. How can you help your child after a DUI arrest?
Understand the consequences
In Florida, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to drive a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02% or higher. The punishment could vary depending on the severity of the situation. License suspension, fines, community service and probation, are all on the table. The courts typically reserve jail time for underage drivers involved in fatal DUI crashes. Nonetheless, it would be best to prepare your child for any possible outcome.
Dealing with the stigma
No doubt, people will find out about your child’s DUI arrest. As a parent, you may feel guilty or embarrassed. But remember, your child likely feels ashamed too. Talk to your kid about how they are feeling. They need to understand that everyone makes mistakes. Hopefully, they learned a valuable lesson from this experience and will be more responsible in the future. If your teenager seems to be having a tough time, consider seeking extra support through therapy.
Teens may end up in trouble with the law. When parents help them accept the consequences and learn from their mistakes, it is a life experience that could shape their future.