DUI with Injury in Florida
DUI with Injury
Being arrested for DUI in Florida can be a terrifying experience. The experience is significantly more distressing if injuries are involved. State law imposes severe penalties on those who cause property damage and/or bodily harm in an accident.
Drivers who cause bodily harm to another person in a DUI collision may be charged with a misdemeanor violation with a maximum fine and a possible jail sentence. The penalties only get worse with the severity of the injury.
The best course of action is to speak with a highly qualified Florida DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
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Penalties for DUI with Injury
According to Florida Statutes Section 316.1933(1)(b), “severe bodily injury” includes an injury that poses a significant risk of death, personal disfigurement, or long-term loss/impairment of the function of any body part or organ.
DUI with serious injury is a third-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to 5 years in jail, 5 years on probation, and/or a $5,000 fine. A conviction will almost certainly result in restitution being awarded to compensate the victim for their losses. A conviction for the offense also includes the possibility of a mandatory minimum jail sentence.
DUI with injury is a Level 7 offense with a primary offense point value of 56 under the Florida Criminal Punishment Code. If the prosecution is successful in having the alleged victim’s injuries designated as “serious,” up to 40 points may be added to the punishment score. Thus, in Florida, a DUI with bodily injury may result in a total of 96 sentencing points, culminating in a minimum required prison sentence of 51 months.
In addition to the prison sentence and fines, a DUI conviction with significant bodily injury will result in the defendant losing their driving rights for three years—beginning after the period of incarceration has concluded. Other penalties include obligatory DUI program attendance, vehicle impoundment, psychosocial evaluation, the requirement of having an interlock device installed on the defendant’s vehicle, court expenses and fees, community service, and probation.
Increase Your Chances of Acquittal with Legal Eagles
DUI with injury is one of the most serious DUI offenses in Florida, and no one should proceed without the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney. However, with the right defense, you may be able to challenge the charge or reduce potential fines. Legal Eagles is here to help. We have successfully handled hundreds of cases over the years and have earned the reputation of being Brevard County’s top DUI defense team. Contact Mario Gunde Peters & Kelley to safeguard your rights and boost the chance of acquittal today.
