DUI and Leaving the Scene of Accident in Florida

Understand Your Legal Responsibilities

When involved in a car accident, it is a person’s responsibility to provide information and administer aid, according to Florida Statute 316.062. Anyone involved in an accident that causes bodily harm or death must stop and report their name, address, and car registration number to the other persons involved.

If asked, the driver must be able to show their driver’s license. If someone is hurt in an accident, the other party is obligated to provide “reasonable assistance,” which could include bringing the person to a physician or medical facility for treatment. Failure to communicate this information or render aid is generally referred to as a “hit and run,” and the consequences can be severe when done in conjunction with alleged drunk driving (DUI).

Penalties for DUI and Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Florida

If you are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Florida and leave the scene of an accident, you could face years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. Drivers who intentionally fail to stop and comply with Florida 316.062 may be charged with a third-degree felony. A third-degree felony in Florida is punishable by up to 5 years in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.

If the accident results in significant bodily harm, the driver should immediately stop and remain at the accident scene until the responsibilities of 316.062 are met. Those who willfully fail to meet these requirements or flee the scene of an accident may be charged with a second-degree felony. A second-degree felony is punished by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Drivers involved in fatal accidents must stop and remain at the accident scene until the conditions of 316.062 are met. A person who knowingly violates this law may be charged with a first-degree felony. First-degree crimes are punished by up to 30 years in jail and a $10,000 fine.