What are the laws about open containers in a vehicle?

In the District of Columbia, open containers of alcohol in a vehicle are prohibited. The law states that no person shall keep an open container of alcoholic beverages in the passenger area of any motor vehicle. An open container is defined as any container that has been opened, has a broken seal, or the contents of which have been partially removed. The law applies to both drivers and passengers. Alcoholic beverages must be stored in the trunk of the vehicle, or in the area behind the last upright seat of a vehicle with no trunk. If the vehicle does not have a trunk, then the container must be stored in an area of the vehicle not normally occupied by the driver or passengers. It is important to note that even if the car is not in motion, open containers are still prohibited and can result in a drunk driving charge. It is also important to remember that drinking and driving at the same time is illegal. If a police officer observes a person drinking while operating a vehicle, they can be subject to a DUI/DWI charge. It is also illegal to have open containers of alcohol in a parked vehicle. If you have any further questions about the laws regarding open containers in the District of Columbia, it is best to contact an experienced automobile attorney who can help navigate the legal process.

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What are the laws about open containers in a vehicle?

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