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Common Types of DUI Offenses in Florida

 

There are different types of DUI charges with varying penalties. DUI charges in Florida can vary based on blood alcohol content (BCA), injuries or fatalities, prior offenses, and property damage. I have been practicing DUI defense for decades and have the expertise to navigate all types of charges.

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DUI With Property Damage

DUI with property damage involves driving under the influence and causing damage to property. This charge carries standard DUI penalties and additional consequences for the property damage incurred, potentially leading to increased fines, jail time, longer license suspensions, and heightened legal repercussions.

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DUI Manslaughter

When a fatal accident occurs due to impaired driving, the legal classification for the case would be DUI manslaughter. This grave offense combines the seriousness of a DUI with the tragic outcome of manslaughter, often leading to severe legal consequences, including substantial prison time, hefty fines, and long-term license revocation.

 

Vehicular Homicide

Vehicular homicide refers to causing a death through reckless or negligent driving. Unlike DUI Manslaughter, alcohol may not be a factor, but the driver’s conduct is deemed sufficiently careless or dangerous, resulting in fatal consequences. Conviction can lead to serious penalties, including imprisonment and having your driving privileges revoked.

 

Misdemeanor & Felony DUIs

Misdemeanor and Felony DUIs differ in severity and levels of consequences. A misdemeanor DUI usually involves first or second offenses, while a felony DUI often includes repeat offenses, serious injury, or death. Felony DUIs carry harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and greater fines.

 

Wet Reckless Driving

In DUI conviction cases, a plea bargain known as wet reckless driving may be pursued wherein the charge is reduced from DUI to reckless driving involving alcohol. This alternative often leads to milder penalties compared to a standard DUI, encompassing reduced fines and shorter periods of license suspension.

 

Aggravated DUI

An aggravated DUI charge arises when a DUI offense involves factors such as exceptionally high blood alcohol levels, the presence of minors in the vehicle, or the infliction of serious bodily injury. These elements elevate the severity of the DUI, resulting in increased penalties and longer sentences that require specialized defense.