My son is out drinking with his friends a lot. It’s fine by me as long as he takes care. Once, however, I caught him driving while drunk. What are the consequences of this? Can you tell me about the state sanctions for DUI as well as DUI insurance?

Mary Jane

Baton Rouge, LA

The most frightening thing about drinking under the influence (DUI) of alcohol is that one can get into an accident and suffer unspeakable injuries. For this reason alone, everyone must be cautious in driving. One mustn’t drive if he/she feels unwell or distracted. He/she mustn’t speak on the phone or attempt to do several things at the same time while on the road. Driving a car requires one’s full attention. Being alert and sober is imperative.

As for state sanctions and regulations, Louisiana considers the first DUI as a criminal offense. The punishment includes a fine of $1000 — not an easy amount of money to let go — on top of paying for all the legal proceedings. Mary Jane, one may also face jail time depending on his/her age.

And what constitutes DUI? A drunk driver is any adult with a BAC of at least .08; a minor with a BAC of .02 or higher; and finally a commercial vehicle driver with a BAC of .04 or more. If you would notice, it takes less intake of alcohol for your teenage son to be arrested for DUI.

After the first offense, it is normally mandatory for arrested drivers to show proof insurance so that they can get their licenses reinstated. By the way, DUI insurance is much more expensive because there is a higher probability that the driver will make a claim.