Law enforcement prepared for spring break DUIs

Florida State law enforcement agencies are getting together to urge spring breakers to not forget the elementary rules of safety, according to a news release by Florida Highway Patrol.

Law enforcement officials warn about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and note that throughout the month of March, law enforcement agencies will be out enforcing the state’s drinking age laws and working to keep impaired drivers off the roads. This will lead to a significant number of citations, court proceedings and the need for offenders to hire experienced criminal lawyers in order to protect their interests.

FHP Director Col. David Brierton noted that “Florida troopers do not tolerate impaired driving, so drive sober and drive safely.” Moreover, drivers should also know that Florida’s tough DUI and DWI laws have stiff penalties that can leave offenders with an empty wallet and with days in jail.

Other elements of information are just as important. For example, anyone under the age of 21 in possession of alcohol can be cited for a second-degree misdemeanor, which can lead to costly court fees, fines, and other lasting consequences.

Moreover, selling alcohol to anyone under 21 or buying alcohol for anyone under 21 is also a misdemeanor. Possessing of an open alcoholic beverage container in a vehicle (in motion or stopped) by the driver and or the passenger(s) is also a violation of Florida laws.

Since the spring break usually leads to many teenage offenders, you should also remember that drivers under the age of 21 with a blood alcohol content level of .02 or higher will have their license suspended for six months and second offense results in a one-year suspension. Also, the first offense for refusing to submit to testing results in a 12-month suspension, and a second offense results in a 18-month suspension.

In this context, remember what Sheriff Scott Israel of Broward County warns: “Drinking and driving do not mix. If you are under the influence of drugs and alcohol, make the decision not to drive. Take a cab. Call a friend for a ride. Don’t endanger other drivers, your friends or yourself.”

Since Florida law enforcement agencies take DUI and DWI offenses seriously, make sure you benefit of the best legal criminal advice possible when you find yourself in this kind of situation. Our experienced legal team can provide you with counseling and the best way to deal with the consequences of bad decisions, such as drinking and driving.