As colleges resume classes, many students kick off the new semester with a little celebrating. Getting together with friends and having a few drinks is a rite of passage for most, but it’s always important to indulge responsibly. Driving while intoxicated is a serious offense, no matter your stage in life. Yet, in college, it could have serious consequences on your education, and potentially even your career.

What Happens When You Receive a DUI in College?

Driving while intoxicated, also known as driving under the influence (DUI), is a charge that’s given to any driver with a blood alcohol content over the legal limit of 0.8%. If a student is under the legal drinking age of 21, however, there is zero-tolerance for driving after having alcohol.

If you’re pulled over and are found to have too much alcohol in your system, the police will likely report the charge to your school. It’s up to your educational institution to decide how they’ll proceed thereafter.

In addition to the punishment for your DUI charge, which may include losing your license and fines, you may also lose any scholarship money you’ve been awarded, along with student housing. Some career prospects are even diminished because of a DUI. For instance, receiving a license in the fields of medicine or law may be more difficult  with a DUI on your record.

How Can You Avoid a DUI Charge?

Fortunately, receiving a DUI is entirely preventable. Most schools are fairly tolerant of some degree of partying as long as it’s done responsibly. This means designating a sober driver for any outing you plan on attending or walking to the event, if possible.

While the legal limit may be 0.8%, many college students are unaware of their tolerance levels. It’s best not to test it at all. When in doubt, hail a driver via your preferred ride-sharing app.

If you’re a college student who has been charged with driving while intoxicated, turn to the Law Office of Mike Hamilton. Located in Columbia, MO, this dedicated attorney has extensive trial experience and establishes a thorough defense for his clients to secure the best possible legal outcomes. Find out more about his approach to DUI defense by visiting his website or call (573) 825-5698 for assistance.

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