During the next few weeks parents will be beaming with pride as their high schoolers head out the door to go to prom. But for as much as these young men and women look so grown up and mature, they are not and we believe some words of caution are in order — both for them and adults.
Prom season is a time of fun and celebration and lifelong memories that can be spoiled forever by underage drinking and its consequences. Not only are there legal consequences for underage drinkers, but there are legal consequences for those providing alcohol to minors.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, several Minnesota cities are attempting to deter underage drinking by implementing “social host” ordinances, which make it unlawful to provide an environment in which underage drinking takes place.
Some adults downplay underage drinking as an issue because of their own behavior while young, but they need to understand that providing alcohol to minors is a serious issue.
Adults who provide alcohol to minors can be held responsible and suffer serious criminal, legal, and financial consequences including: felony charges and prison time in the case of death; civil liability charges in the case of injury, property damage or death; and increased insurance rates.
According to the DPS, adolescent alcohol consumption can result in brain damage and impair intellectual development, and is especially dangerous with the prevalence of binge drinking.
And while we understand that teenagers believe they are immortal and immune to negative effects, we also know better. The old adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is especially pertinent in this instance.
To ensure a safe night of celebration, the DPS stresses that prom-bound teens use seat belts, pay attention behind the wheel, speak up to stop unsafe driving behaviors — and do not drink and drive. The deaths of seven Minnesota teens this past weekend are a stark reminder of the consequences.
The state’s “Not a Drop” law says driving minors cited for consuming any amount of alcohol will lose their license from 30 to 180 days, and face up to a $700 fine and 90 days in jail. A citation of this nature will also stay on the driver’s record for 15 years.
For those who think they won’t get caught, there were nearly 7,000 “not a drop” convictions issued to underage drivers during 2005–2007. Is it worth taking a chance?
We don’t think so. The consequences of drinking and driving may go far beyond a citation — for both teens and adults.
