According to Alcolock, despite some signs of decreasing numbers, there were 5,125 alcohol-related crashes in Florida in 2017, including 350 fatalities. The largest number of drunk driving fatalities were in the 25-29 age group with 31, followed by the 55-59 age group at 26 fatalities in 2017. Unfortunately, drunk driving is still the top cause of fatal traffic accidents in Florida at 26%.
If you have been involved in a DUI in Florida, it’s important that your first call be to the Bradenton DUI attorneys at the Fowler Law Group.
About DUIs
Unfortunately, the people who know the most about DUIs, other than law enforcement, are those people who have experienced it. For example, many people are not aware of the various modifiers that make a DUI a felony rather than a misdemeanor. According to Florida Statute Section 316.193, a DUI in Florida will be considered a felony if:
- A person is convicted of a third driving under the influence offense within ten years, or
- A person is convicted of causing serious bodily injury while driving under the influence.
Another somewhat obscure fact is that DUIs don’t apply exclusively to alcohol, but to controlled substances, even prescribed drugs, as well.
A DUI (Driving Under the Influence), also known in some states as DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), OWI (operating while intoxicated), or other designations, carries numerous consequences, some short-term and others long-term. Many people are not even aware of some of these consequences, which can be severe.
Primary Consequences of a DUI Conviction
Most people are familiar with at least some of the more notorious consequences of SUIs, such as:
- Financial Consequences. There are significant financial consequences that can easily total well over tens of thousands of dollars, including bond, court fees, fines, attorneys’ fees, DUI classes fees, and restitution.
- Driving Restrictions. These can include loss of license, license suspension, license restrictions, and interlocking devices, plus more money.
- Car Insurance. Those with DUIs pay significantly higher premiums for insurance coverage, if they can get coverage at all.
- Probation. A DUI will surely place you on probation, requiring drug tests, check ins with a probation officer, restrictions on travel, and, of course, more money.
- Alcohol Education. Receiving a DUI guarantees you will have to attend and pass some type of alcohol education program, plus, again, more money.
- Sobriety Programs. You will at least be required to attend AA meetings for at least three months, and you’ll be one of the people who will have to stand in line at the end of the meeting to get your attendance sheet signed.
Less Common Consequences of a Dui Conviction
There are numerous DUI consequences that make perfect sense, yet are still often surprising, such as:
- Difficulty finding Work. DUIs can limit the number and type of employment positions you are able to apply for, since many check background records for crimes.
- Difficulties Enrolling in College. Most schools have admissions requirements that take into account the applicant as a whole. Some schools look into an applicant’s legal history, and, of course, there’s your DUI.
- Loss of Friends. Friends that you have been close to may decide they can no longer be around you because of your choices, especially those friends who may be in recovery themselves.
Let the Bradenton Dui Attorneys at the Fowler Law Group Help With Your DUI
There is nothing good about getting a DUI, unless it is the defining event that ultimately changes your life for the better. Still, we are all human, and we all make mistakes. If you are ready to make the difficult life changes that will free you from alcohol or drugs, let the Bradenton DUI attorneys at The Fowler Law Group help you deal with your legal issues. Please contact us online.