Drinking before driving in California can result in charges for driving under the influence (DUI). In some situations, drivers can also face criminal charges in California for transporting alcohol in their vehicles.
You can use this article is to review California’s laws on carrying alcohol in a vehicle with the Simmrin Law Group. Find out how these laws differ for individuals under the age of 21 and focus on building a defense by calling us at (310) 896-2723.
Laws for Carrying Alcohol in a Vehicle for Drivers Over 21
Drivers over the age of 21 are legally allowed to carry alcohol in their vehicles in some situations. Drivers may carry alcohol as long as the containers are sealed, unopened, and full. Carrying a container that was opened can lead to criminal charges under Vehicle Code Section 23222(a).
The court system handles VC 23222(a) charges seriously. Drivers convicted of possessing an open container while driving can face:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Jail time of up to six months
- License suspension of up to one year
Exceptions to VC 23222(a) Charges in California
Note that California provides a few exceptions to the regulations set forth by VC 23222(a). Drivers may be able to carry an opened container of alcohol, provided they are over 21 if the alcohol is held inside:
- A locked container
- The trunk of their vehicle
- The bed of their pickup truck
Additionally, individuals may be able to transport open containers of alcohol if they are passengers in certain vehicles, including buses, taxis, campers, and limousines. However, this exception will not apply if anyone in the vehicle is under the age of 21.
Laws for Carrying Alcohol in a Vehicle for Drivers Under 21
California does not generally permit drivers under 21 to carry alcohol and drugs in a vehicle at all, even if the alcohol container is full and sealed. Violations of this regulation can be prosecuted under California Vehicle Code Section 23224. Note that individuals can be charged under VC 23224 even if they are a passenger in a vehicle containing alcohol if they are under 21.
VC 23224 convictions can result in:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Jail time of up to six months
- License suspension of up to one year
Drivers facing VC 23224 charges can get help quickly from a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles. Call (310) 896-2723 to learn more about your legal options if you’re accused of possession of alcohol in a vehicle by a person under 21.
Exceptions to VC 23224 Charges in California
There are several legal exemptions to VC 23224 charges in the state of California. Drivers under 21 may be legally permitted to transport alcohol in a vehicle if they are instructed to do so by:
- A parent or legal guardian
- An adult empowered to do so by a parent or legal guardian
- An adult relative who is responsible
Additionally, drivers under 21 may transport closed, full alcoholic beverages if they are driving with any of the above-listed individuals. Finally, some drivers under 21 must transport alcohol as part of their jobs. California makes an exception for this situation in some cases.
Additional DUI Charges in California
California uses strict laws to regulate drunk driving. Drivers in California are not even allowed to carry opened containers of alcohol in their vehicles. The charges used to prosecute drivers operating a vehicle under the influence can be even harsher.
Drivers can be charged with a DUI if they operate a vehicle after drinking alcohol or using certain chemical substances that cause impairment. A conviction for a first-time DUI offense in California can result in the following penalties:
- Fines of up to $2,000
- Jail time of up to six months
- Entry into an alcohol treatment program
Each time a driver is convicted of a DUI in California, the penalties for a conviction increase. All DUI charges in California are priorable. This makes it very important that you get professional help immediately if you are accused of drinking and driving.
A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can begin working on a strong defense for you right now. Allow the team at the Simmrin Law Group to assess your unique needs today.
Talk to a Lawyer About California’s Laws on Carrying Alcohol in a Vehicle
California has two major laws on carrying alcohol in a vehicle. A conviction under either VC 23222(a) or VC 23224 can lead to fines, jail time, and a license suspension. You can get help handling these charges by contacting the Simmrin Law Group for a FREE initial case evaluation.
Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles are ready to focus on your case. Just complete our online contact form or call (310) 896-2723.