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 Florida’s desire to prevent underage drivers from taking to the wheel while drunk has led to extremely aggressive prosecution of underage DUIs. Here's what you need to know about Florida underage DUI:
In Florida, drivers under the age of 21 who are arrested with a DUI (driving under the influence) are prosecuted differently than those drivers who are 21 years and older. The largest difference in under-21 DUI penalties involves the driver's BAC (blood alcohol content) which for underage drinkers is .02 percent, or .06 lower than the statewide requirement of .08 percent.
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Fines, Penalties and Imprisonment
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Imprisonment for first offenders is a maximum of six months, unless the driver had a BAC of .08 percent or higher with a minor in the vehicle, which is a maximum of nine months. A maximum probation period of a year, and 50 hours of community service are also required for all first-time DUI offenders under age 21.
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Detainment
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Drivers under the age of 21 who exhibit any signs of alcohol-related driving may be detained regardless of their blood alcohol content. The detainment of the driver is not considered an arrest, a traffic infraction or a criminal offense, but will lead to a DUI if the blood alcohol content is over .02 percent.
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License Suspensions
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Under-21 drivers with a first-time DUI conviction and a BAC of .02 percent or higher may have their license suspended for six months. Subsequent convictions or refusal to participate in a BAC test will result in a one-year suspension. A second-offense refusal to submit to a BAC test results in an 18-month suspension. If convicted, license suspensions take effect immediately.
At Musca Law, we apply our experience and knowledge in this area to help our clients avoid maximum penalties and convictions from underage DUI charges.
Contact a Naples Underage Drinking DUI lawyer at Musca Law today to discover the difference that we can make in the outcome of you or a loved one's case.
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