Driving under the influence (DUI in Florida) is a serious matter that can lead to significant changes in your life. With Florida’s lively nightlife, beautiful roads, and easy access to alcohol, it’s no surprise that DUIs are common here. If you or someone close to you has been charged with DUI, it’s important to understand your rights, the possible penalties, and how a knowledgeable lawyer can help protect your future. This article will cover the essentials of Florida’s DUI laws, the consequences of a DUI, and the importance of getting legal help from an experienced Fort Walton Beach personal injury attorney like Browning Law.
What Is DUI in Florida?
DUI in Florida means driving a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. According to state law, a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered legally impaired for drivers over the age of 21.
The limit is lower for commercial drivers at 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, there’s a strict limit of 0.02%.
What Constitutes a DUI in Florida?
Under Florida alcohol driving laws, a person is legally impaired if their BAC is 0.08% or more. Commercial drivers must stay below 0.04%, while those under 21 can only have a BAC of 0.02% or less.
It’s important to note that many factors – like weight, gender, and how fast someone drinks – can influence BAC levels. Just having two drinks might put someone at risk of a DUI in Florida.
The Consequences of a DUI in Florida
Being charged with a DUI in Florida can lead to several consequences, including:
- License suspension: First-time offenders risk losing their driver’s license for up to one year.
- Fines and fees: Fees can range from $500 to $5,000 depending on the case.
- Jail time: A first conviction may mean up to six months in jail, with harsher penalties for repeat offenders.
- Mandatory programs: Offenders might be required to complete DUI education courses or install an ignition interlock device.
The penalties become even more serious if the DUI causes injury or death, which is why it’s essential to be cautious and know your legal options.
Why You Need a Fort Walton Beach Personal Injury Attorney
Florida’s alcohol driving laws are put in place to keep everyone safe on the roads, but they can be a bit tricky to navigate. These laws outline rules for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing, the penalties for refusing a breathalyzer, and how DUI checkpoints operate. If you find yourself facing a DUI in Florida, it’s crucial to consult a knowledgeable attorney who can help evaluate your case, question any improper testing, and spot any legal errors made by law enforcement.
If you’ve been injured in a DUI-related accident, dealing with the aftermath can be daunting. Medical bills accumulate, insurance companies may offer low settlement amounts, and the emotional impact can be heavy.
A Fort Walton Beach personal injury attorney like Coy H. Browning can help victims seek compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial losses. With experience as a former Florida State Trooper, Browning Law has a unique perspective on investigating accident scenes, understanding the law, and holding reckless drivers accountable.
Common Injuries in DUI-Related Accidents & How to Fight
Those involved in accidents caused by DUI often endure serious injuries such as:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These can result in long-term cognitive and physical challenges.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spinal cord may lead to paralysis or ongoing pain after a crash.
- Broken Bones: High-speed collisions frequently cause fractures that require long recovery periods.
- Emotional Trauma: The psychological effects of a DUI accident can persist for years, especially in the case of fatalities.
Getting compensation for these injuries is essential for covering medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress. So, how to fight a DUI charge? Fighting a DUI charge means looking at every detail of your case, including:
- Breathalyzer Accuracy: These devices need to be properly calibrated to give accurate results.
- Field Sobriety Tests: Such tests can be subjectively interpreted and may not truly show impairment.
- Procedural Errors: Law enforcement must stick to strict rules when arresting someone for DUI.
A skilled attorney can pinpoint weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case, which might lead to lesser charges or even dismissal.
How Browning Law Can Help
When a DUI results in a traffic accident, the fallout can be even more severe. Victims may face hefty medical costs, lost earnings, and emotional distress. In such cases, pursuing compensation can provide much-needed financial relief.
Browning Law, led by former Florida State Trooper Coy H. Browning, focuses on helping both victims of DUI accidents and those accused of DUI offenses. With a strong grasp of traffic laws and accident reconstruction, Coy H. Browning brings valuable experience to every case.
Whether you’re seeking damages as a victim or defending yourself against a DUI charge, having a seasoned attorney by your side can make a difference.
Contact Browning Law Today!
If you’re dealing with a DUI charge or the consequences of a related accident, it’s crucial to act quickly. Browning Law provides complimentary consultations to help you navigate your rights and legal choices. With a proven history of achieving substantial settlements and a commitment to individualized client support, Browning Law is the advocate you want during tough times.
Call (850) 344-1736 to book your consultation today and let Browning Law Firm advocate for your rights and strive for the best outcome in your case.
FAQs
1. What should I do if I’m pulled over for a DUI in Florida?
Stay calm, cooperate with the officer, and reach out to an attorney right away.
2. Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in Florida?
Yes, you can refuse, but be aware that this may lead to a license suspension under Florida’s implied consent laws.
3. How long does a DUI stay on my record in Florida?
In Florida, a DUI conviction remains on your record for 75 years.