February 09, 2012
/24-7PressRelease/ -- Getting pulled over by a police officer is an intimidating event, especially if any alcohol was consumed before getting behind the wheel. Harsh penalties are associated with
driving under the influence (DUI) charges, and some simple information can help guide you through the process.
Steps to Follow When Pulled Over
If pulled over by an officer, it is wise to promptly and carefully pull off the road.
Do not reach for license and registration documentation until asked. Officers are trained to watch for "furtive" or suspicious movements. Reaching into a glove compartment, wallet or purse can easily be misinterpreted as reaching for a hidden weapon or an attempt to hide something. Instead, wait until asked to produce these documents.
Answer only the specific questions asked, and answer briefly. Be polite, but be concise.
Implied Consent Law and Associated Penalties for Refusing a Test
After some initial questions the officer may suspect drunk driving and request field sobriety testing or a breath alcohol (BAC) test. Under Florida's Implied Consent Law, anyone with a driver's license has expressly agreed to take such tests.
If a breath test is refused a one year driver's license suspension is automatically, and immediately, applied. If there is an accident causing bodily harm, police are allowed to have blood drawn (forcibly, if needed) to test for an unlawful alcohol level.
Overview of DUI in Florida
Florida has a zero tolerance policy for anyone under 21 years old with a BAC of 0.02 or higher. Penalties for violation include automatic suspension of driving privileges for six months, according to the
Florida Driver's Handbook.
Adults who are at least 21 years old with BACs at or above 0.08 will likely receive DUI arrests. Associated penalties include varying fines, community service work, up to one year probation, up to six months imprisonment, license revocation for at least 180 days, driver impact panels and DUI School for 12 hours. Additional DUI convictions increase the severity of penalties.
Although the criminal penalties may seem harsh enough, a DUI conviction has even greater consequences. Once on your record, this conviction can negatively affect many aspects of your life, including both finding and keeping a job, as well as a potential spike in insurance rates. As a result, it is important to seek the counsel of an experienced DUI lawyer to ensure all legal rights are protected.
Article provided by Stephen T. Holman Law Office
Visit us at
www.stephentholman.com---
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