As a parent, you may like to think that your child is too responsible to drink while they’re underage, but peer pressure and curiosity can get the best of even the most mature children. Unfortunately, many teens don’t fully understand that underage drinking often leads to serious, sometimes fatal accidents and DWI charges that can impact their lives for years to come. Knowing the risks and talking to your child may lower the chances that they’ll engage in this dangerous behavior.

The Dangers of Underage Drinking

Teenagers are often prone to risky behavior, a tendency made even worse by alcohol. In fact, car accidents are the leading cause of death for American teenagers, and around 15% of underage drivers who were killed in such accidents were drunk driving.

After drinking, teens are also more likely to engage in dangerous sexual behavior, which could lead to diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

Even if they don’t cause an accident, underage drivers stopped by police officers can lose their driving privileges if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is just 0.02%. Those with a BAC over 0.05% can be charged with a DWI, even if they’re below the legal limit for adults.

Talking to Your Kids About Underage Drinking

Don’t wait until your child has been injured or arrested to start discussing the risks of underage drinking. In fact, the best time to begin the conversation is now, before you think they might have had their first drink.

Like many teens, your child may tune out if you approach the topic with a lecturing tone or treat it as a serious conversation. Instead, try to start the discussion naturally. For instance, if teens in a movie are drinking, casually ask if your child has been pressured to drink, then explain the risks that come with it. Keeping the lines of communication open will help your family avoid any of the unpleasant outcomes of underage drinking and driving.

If your child has been charged with drunk driving, call the attorneys at Fiandach & Fiandach, an experienced DWI defense firm in Rochester, NY. For over 40 years, their nationally recognized lawyers have provided aggressive representation and positive results for their clients. Visit their website to learn how they will help you fight the DWI charges, or call (585) 244-8910 to arrange a consultation today.