On a tragic day, our beloved son, Liam, lost his life due to the reckless actions of an underage driver in California. This driver, not yet 18, was driving under the influence and caused a fatal car accident that took Liam away from us forever. The loss of my son has been unbearable, and I can’t help but think about the countless families who have suffered or could suffer similarly devastating losses.

In California, the law currently allows underage drivers who have committed such grave offenses to be charged as juveniles. However, I believe that intoxicated driving which results in the death of an innocent person should never be taken lightly. These underage drivers should face the full consequences of their actions, just as any adult would, to prevent future tragedies and to serve justice to the victims and their families.

Changing this law would not only serve as a strong deterrent for underage drinking and driving but also ensure that justice is appropriately served. The implementation of this change can potentially save lives and encourage young drivers to think twice before making such fatal decisions.

Statistics show that young drivers are significantly over-represented in alcohol-related crashes. In 2019, nearly a quarter of fatal car accidents involving teen drivers were linked to alcohol consumption, a sobering statistic that highlights the urgency of this issue. Making a legislative change to charge intoxicated underage drivers as adults in fatal accidents would send a clear message that our society values the safety of our roads and the lives of our loved ones.

I urge California legislators to consider this change for the sake of public safety and justice for victims like Liam. Our communities deserve highways free from the danger posed by intoxicated drivers, regardless of their age.

Please, join me in advocating for stricter legal consequences for underage DUI offenders in California to ensure no other family has to face the heartbreak that mine has endured. Sign this petition today to make our roads safer and to bring justice to victims and their families.