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What is DUI?
In Florida, driving under the influence (DUI) is defined as the criminal act of operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, alcohol, or both. DUI is also the criminal act of operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
When will law enforcement make a DUI traffic stop?
Law enforcement will usually make a DUI traffic stop when ever they have reason to suspect that a person is driving under the influence. Usually, law enforcement will notice that a person’s driving behaviors are erratic, and decide to make a stop. Some erratic behaviors that could lead to a DUI traffic stop include, but are not limited to: excessive speeding, frequent stops, ignoring traffic signs, swerving, weaving in and out of traffic lanes, and driving in the wrong direction.
What is blood alcohol testing?
Blood alcohol testing is used by law enforcement to determine the amount of alcohol that is in a person’s blood stream. The amount of alcohol in a person’s blood stream is given in a percentage, and is referred to as the person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Blood alcohol testing can be done with breath, blood, and urine tests.
What are field sobriety tests?
Field sobriety tests are utilized by law enforcement to determine if a person is operating under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both. These tests are agility and coordination based, as it is believed that if a person is intoxicated, his/her coordination will suffer. In most states, only 3 field sobriety tests are classified as standard. These tests are the 1) horizontal gaze nystagmus test, 2) the walk and turn test, and 3) the one leg stand test.
What are the penalties for DUI?
If you are convicted of DUI or a drug and/or alcohol related offense in the state of Florida, the penalties will dramatically change your quality of life. People who are convicted of driving under the influence are often sentenced with jail time, substantial fines, community service, and probation. Additionally, people who are convicted of DUI stand to lose their Florida driver’s license.
Why should I hire a DUI defense attorney?
If you have been charged with or arrested for DUI, you will want a lawyer on your side who understands DUI law and the DUI process. A DUI defense attorney will have the litigation experience and training it takes to be successful both in and out of court.
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