Impaired driving is one of Florida's largest social issues. In 2008 there were 2,978 fatalities on Florida roadways that were alcohol related. Although most people do not intend to drive home drunk there is no easy answer to know if you are over the limit. There is no way to unequivocally answer this. There are a large number of factors to add into the equation where someone can drink but still remain under the legal limit. Dependent upon the drink consumed, the amount consumed, weight, ones age, and metabolism. However, every drink that you consume can affect your degree of impairment.
You may know that you are impaired in some way by alcohol the night prior, but what about the morning after. It is far more complex to know if you are safe to get behind the wheel the following day. It is just as crucial that people are aware of how long alcohol can stay in your system. Clearly if you are taking in more alcohol then your body is getting rid of chances are you will not be fit to drive the morning after.
The paramount answer would be to not drink and drive. Florida has stringent laws which prohibit driving while intoxicated. In short, first and second offenses are misdemeanors, third or subsequent offense is a third degree felony. However, your driver's license can be immediately suspended for six months on the first offense to include high administrative fees.
If you refuse a breathalyzer test, per Florida law your driver's license is suspended for one year as of the arrest date to include administrative fees. A possible six month jail sentence on the first offense including astronomical fees, second offense could get you a conviction of nine months in jail plus additional fees. A third arrest can afford you a twelve month jail sentence, with thirty days of the jail sentence being mandatory, vehicle impoundment of ninety days and further fees as ordered. Expect a significant increase in your motor vehicle insurance, thus finding competitive quotes will be difficult as insurance companies are hesitant in taking the risk of insuring a driver with a history of a DUI conviction.
If you have been arrested on DUI charges, it is important for you to retain an aggressive and experienced Florida DUI Criminal Defense Attorney who has the know how to build s successful defense that works for you. Attorney John Musca is an experienced DUI criminal defense attorney that will work diligently to protect your rights.
