DUI Charges For Passenger In Car?

A passenger in a vehicle was arrested for drunk driving where the driver was alleged to be intoxicated in Rutherford County, Tennessee. Glenee Taylor was arrested for allowing the driver, Parrish Harrell, to drive knowing he was intoxicated, according to wsmv.com.

Harrell was pulled over after he did not timely proceed through an intersection with a green light and then he crossed the center line a few times. A DUI investigation ensued and Harrell allegedly failed the field sobriety tests. He was subsequently charged with driving under the influence as was his passenger, Taylor.

In California, a passenger in a vehicle is not liable under the Vehicle or Penal Code for the actions of a drunk driver. In order for the person to be convicted under Vehicle Code Section 23152, the defendant had to drive a vehicle and when s/he drove, the defendant was under the influence of an alcoholic beverage and/or drug, or a combined influence of an alcoholic beverage and a drug, (see CALCRIM 2110).

Being a passenger alone would not warrant DUI charges for the passenger.

If you were picked up for a DUI anywhere in San Diego County, do not just plead guilty even if you had a blood alcohol content (BAC) over .08%. There may still be defenses in your case that can lead to reduced charges with less punishment or even a dismissal! Hire an exclusively DUI defense firm that will aggressively defend your case. For a free, confidential consultation, contact The Law Offices of Susan L. Hartman today at 619-260-1122 or use the “Contact Us” form on this page