How Bad Can a Florida DUI Really Be?

Florida DUIs can be relatively minor affairs with a slap on the wrist, some community service, and perhaps a few weeks of alcohol “re-education.” On the other hand, DUIs can also result in much more serious penalties, perhaps putting you away for the rest of your life. If you have been charged with a DUI in Florida, you’re probably wondering how bad your situation truly is. It all depends on your unique circumstances, and only a defense attorney can provide you with targeted guidance. That being said, here are some examples of seriously bad DUIs in Florida:

Woman Hits Motorcyclist in Her Fourth DUI

On March 8th of 2023, it was reported that a woman in Florida had committed her fourth DUI within her lifetime — hitting and injuring a motorcyclist in the process. The crash was so severe that the motorcyclist had to be airlifted to the closest hospital with critical injuries. Witnesses were so traumatized by what they saw that they were found crying at the scene by first responders.

Witnesses also stated that the drunk driver only slammed on the brakes after she had hit the motorcycle from behind. The biker was stopped legally at a red light. Police reported that she had slurred speech, glossy eyes, and exhibited a smell of alcohol. Her first DUI conviction occurred all the way back in 1994, and since then she committed two other DUIs before this most recent incident. As a result of this DUI, she could face up to five years in prison.

Drunk Driver Hits Cop in Fort Lauderdale

Also on March 8th, it was reported that a drunk driver had struck a Highway Patrol trooper — causing “incapacitating injuries.” The accident took place on I-95, and it involved a Jeep driving through an enclosed barrier and through a number of orange traffic cones. A trooper was stopped in the area with his emergency lights activated — stationed there to oversee construction work. As a result of this accident, the trooper suffered a leg injury that was said to be “incapacitating.” It’s not clear whether he’ll ever work as a trooper again. It goes without saying that the drunk driver is facing serious penalties.

Drunk Driver Gets Life

On February 28th, it was reported that a drunk driver had been put behind bars for life. This individual had previously killed two girls and their grandfather while high on meth. This shows how serious DUI penalties can be in Florida — especially when fatalities or serious injuries are involved.

What Should I Do if I’m Facing a DUI in Florida?

If you’re facing DUI charges in Florida, the first thing you should do is get in touch with a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney in Largo — such as Trevena Pontrello & Associates. With our help, you can strive for the best possible outcome in an efficient manner. Whether you’re facing years behind bars or a relatively light sentence, you should always fight for your rights. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective defense strategy.

Sources

1. https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/florida-edgewater-woman-dui-motorcycle-crash
2. https://www.wptv.com/news/state/broward/florida-trooper-injured-after-20-year-old-dui-driver-slams-into-parked-patrol-vehicle-on-i-95-fhp-says
3. https://www.clickorlando.com/news/florida/2023/02/28/florida-man-gets-life-for-dui-crash-that-killed-2-girls-grandfather/

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