What are the laws about sober passengers in a vehicle?

In California, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to ride in a vehicle if there is an open container of alcohol in the car. Additionally, passengers over 21 years of age are not allowed to drink alcohol while in the vehicle. All passengers should remain sober while in the car or they could face criminal charges. It is unlawful for the driver or any passengers to be in possession of an alcoholic beverage while they are in or on the vehicle. This law applies to any motor vehicle being operated on a public street, highway, or public property. This means that even if the vehicle is not moving, it is still illegal to have an open container of alcohol in the car. In addition, if there is an open container in a vehicle driven by someone under 21, all the passengers in the car can be charged with a misdemeanor for being knowingly in the presence of alcohol. Passengers would be expected to take reasonable steps to try and stop the driver from violating the law. Passengers in a car need to be aware that they can be held responsible for any actions taken while they are inside the vehicle. It is important that all occupants of the vehicle remain sober and that no open containers of alcohol are present. Violation of this law can result in criminal charges and hefty fines.

Related FAQs

What are the laws about seat belt usage?
What are the laws about unsafe lane changes?
What are the laws about passing a stopped school bus?
What are the laws about parking in a fire lane?
What are the laws about vehicles with modified exhaust systems?
What are the laws about tinting the windshield?
What is the law about driving a borrowed car?
What are the laws about smoking and other drug use in a vehicle?
What are the laws about reckless driving?
What are the laws about exhaust systems that are too loud?

Related Blog Posts

Essential Automobile Law Terms: The Definitions You Need to Know - July 31, 2023
The Basics of Automobile Law: Everything You Need to Know - August 7, 2023
How to Read and Interpret Automobile Law Documents - August 14, 2023
Navigating Automobile Law: Understanding the Legal Process - August 21, 2023
Who Is Responsible For Automobile Damage: What You Need to Know - August 28, 2023