At this moment, people throughout Florida and across the nation are busy making their way to the homes of friends and family for the long Thanksgiving holiday. Indeed, AAA is predicting that low prices at the pump will mean as many as 48.7 million people will be traveling at least 50 miles over the coming weekend.
It’s highly likely that people will still be doing a considerable amount of driving even after arriving at their destination, traveling to the homes of relatives for overdue visits, area malls to take advantage of Black Friday deals and local restaurants to watch football with friends.
It’s important for anyone planning to consume alcohol while out on any of these errands to understand that both the Florida Highway Patrol and local law enforcement will be out in full force over the Thanksgiving weekend looking to make as many DUI arrests as possible.
As such, people might want to think very carefully about consuming that one extra specialty cocktail, glass of wine or craft beer before getting behind the wheel.
In case you need extra motivation, consider some of the steep consequences called for under Florida law for a person convicted of first-offense driving under the influence:
- Imprisonment: Up to six months in jail, or up to nine months in jail if blood alcohol level (BAL) is .15 or higher or a minor is present in the vehicle
- Fine: A fine of no less than $500 and no more than $1,000, or no less than $1,000 and no more than $2,000 if blood alcohol level (BAL) is .15 or higher or a minor is present in the vehicle
- License revocation: No less than 180 days and no more than 1 year
- Vehicle impoundment: 10 days unless the family of the defendant has no other means of transportation
- Community service: Mandatory 50 hours of community service or an additional fine of $10 for every hour of community service required
Here’s hoping for safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday.
If you’ve been arrested for drunk driving, it’s important to remember that mistakes happen. It’s also important to remember that you should consider speaking with a skilled legal professional able to protect your rights, your reputation and your future as soon as possible.