The findings aren't that surprising. A new study concluded that teens who are exposed to drunk driving as passengers are far more likely to drive drunk themselves, reports King 5 News. The earlier teens are exposed to drunk driving and the more frequently they are exposed to it, the more likely the teens will get behind the wheels drunk, the government-funded study found.

The researchers behind the study looked at 2,500 10th graders and followed them through the 12th grade. The participants in the study would answer a study each year in which they answered questions like how many times they rode in a vehicle with an intoxicated driver and how many days in the past month they drive while under the influence.

The study found that 10th grade students who reported riding in a vehicle with a drunk driver were "many times more likely" to drive drunk themselves in 12th grade when comparing against other 12th grade students who had no experience riding as a passenger with a drunk driver. The findings support the idea that driving drunk is socially influenced behavior and can be ingrained at a young age. Basically, if you ride with a drunk driver at a young age, it may seem normal and okay to drive drunk as you get older.

Most people associate drunk driving with repeat DUI offenders and hardened adults. However, the truth is that many younger individuals are being charged with the crime. A DUI conviction can stick with you for life and have serious impacts on your life. As a result, if you are charged with a DUI in the King County area, you will want to contact an attorney at Wolff Criminal Defense to learn your options and defenses.