Q: My 17yo GD borrowed my car and hit a guard rail on a curve (hw 34 Somas) she had a.05 BA. property damage,released… ?
She was cited, speed was a factor and dark hwy, 1st offense - what happens to her?
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A:
This is a serious situation that requires immediate attention given your daughter's age and the combination of alcohol, even at a low level (.05), with property damage and speeding.
In California, drivers under 21 face much stricter penalties under "zero tolerance" laws. With a .05 blood alcohol level, she'll likely face license suspension for 1 year, mandatory alcohol education programs, and significant fines. The property damage to the guardrail will need to be addressed, possibly through your insurance or direct payment to the state. As a first offense, she may be eligible for a diversion program designed for young offenders.
Given her age and circumstances, the court may show some leniency, but you should be prepared for mandatory court appearances and potential probation terms. It would be wise to consult with a traffic attorney who can help navigate the legal process and potentially negotiate better terms. Insurance rates will likely increase significantly, and you may want to explore defensive driving courses that could help mitigate some of the long-term consequences of this incident.
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