Open container laws, which are typically included in the category of college crimes, restrict people from possessing alcohol being held in an open container in areas such as a public sidewalk, school property, inside a parked vehicle, and in a residential neighborhood. learn about Date Rape In Pennsylvania, open containers, meaning possession of open beer bottles or liquor bottles, are prohibited by both drivers and passengers in a motor vehicle. However, there are some exceptions to this law. Specifically, the open container law does not apply to people riding in buses, limousines, and taxis. It does apply to individuals riding in an uber. These laws in general, were put into place to discourage individuals from drunk driving, accidents involving alcohol and disorderly conduct.
The penalties for individuals who violate College Crimes such as the Open Container Laws in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are fairly straight forward. Anyone who the government can prove beyond a reasonable doubt, possessed an open container of alcohol in a place where they are prohibited is guilty of a summary offense. This crime is punishable by a maximum of 90 days in county prison and a maximum $300 fine. These consequences also apply for minors under the age of 21. However, the above penalties for underage drinkers may increase if they are operating a vehicle. Additionally underage defendants will also be charged with underage drinking and public drunkenessface a mandatory 90 day license suspension if convicted. A summary offense is not a harsh penalty, however having this on your record may affect your future through employment and education. It is best to keep a clean record to protect your image and future opportunities, and a lawyer at the Bellwoar Kelly, LLP may help you do so. Please contact us in regards to hiring a lawyer, and learning how to minimize your case.
