What are the restrictions on a Minor's Driver's License in Colorado Springs?

A Minor's Driving License in Colorado Springs

Obtaining his or her first driving license is something every teenager looks forward to. It signifies independence and a certain coming of age that few other experiences can match. However, it's important to realize that Colorado law doesn't provide the same freedoms to minor drivers that it provides to adult ones. In order to know what is or isn't likely to get you into trouble, this article lists a few restrictions that need to be kept in mind.

There are many ins and outs of this section of law, so hiring a Colorado Springs accident attorney is wise in case of trouble.

Restrictions

There are two major restrictions that are placed on a minor's driving license. They deal with ensuring that the minor in question handles his or her responsibilities properly and doesn't engage in rash behavior that can endanger the lives of others - especially other minors.

For example, the driving license must be held for at least six months before the minor is allowed to drive around another person below 21 years of age and who isn't in the family. Even after six months though, the minor in question can't have more than one passenger below the age of 21 unless he or she has held a valid license for over a year. As before, this stipulation is relaxed if the minors belong to the driver's immediate family.

The restrictions above are waived if the minor's parents or legal guardians are accompanying them, or if someone above 21 years who has a license and has held it for a year is present.

Another restriction is that the minor can't drive a vehicle between 12 am and 5 am unless they've held the license for at least a year.

Exemptions

There are numerous conditions when the restrictions don't apply. Such as in a medical emergency for example. The rule regarding timings also don't apply if the minor has a signed statement from his or her school or employer laying out the need to be driving at that particular time.

Engaging a lawyer

Due to the fine print and large number of exemptions, you must hire a competent Colorado Springs accident attorney to help you out in case of an entaglement with the law. Our Clawson & Clawson attorneys will help you find a way to minimize the penalties or get the charges dropped altogether. Contact us now for a free initial consultation.