• 07
  • July
    2011

From outdoor parties and softball games to a visit to a cabin or lake for fishing, people all over Colorado celebrated the Fourth of July weekend in their own unique fashion. Not surprisingly, alcohol was a staple at many of these Fourth of July celebrations, especially those involving minors. In fact, a recently published government report reveals that the rate of alcohol consumption among young people often surges to troubling levels over the Fourth of July weekend, creating the potential for serious injuries and citations for DUI first offense.

According to a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the rate of alcohol consumption by underage boys and girls (ages 12 to 20) rises dramatically over the holiday weekend, with a staggering number of children ending up in the emergency room.

Specifically, SAMHSA reached the following conclusions concerning the 2009 July Fourth weekend:

  • Boys between the ages of 12-20 averaged 622 emergency room visits a day over the long holiday weekend (as compared with 304 visits a day for the remainder of the month)
  • Girls between the ages of 12-20 averaged 320 emergency room visits a day over the long holiday weekend (as compared with 273 for the remainder of the month)

"This study sheds light on the grim truth that holidays are too often marked by a surge in underage drinking - turning what should be a time of celebration into a time of tragedy," said Pamela S. Hyde, a SAMHSA Administrator. "Clear parental disapproval of alcohol use by their children can assist in preventing underage drinking."

Remember, the penalties can be serious for anyone charged with a DUI or DWAI. However, for minors, a conviction can be especially devastating.

Colorado has a zero tolerance law making it a crime to possess, transport or purchase alcohol if you're under 21. In addition, teen drivers face a one-year driver's license suspension, even if convicted of DUI first offense.

Stay tuned for updates from our Denver DUI/DWAI blog ...

Remember, mistakes happen. If you have been arrested for drunk driving, it is extremely important to speak with an experienced Colorado attorney.

This post is provided for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.

Sources:

'Grim truth' about July 4th weekend: drunk teens (MSNBC)