Spring Break in Florida: DUI Risks, Boating Under the Influence, and What to Do If You’re Charged

From DUI checkpoints to an increased police presence on Florida’s roads and waterways, drivers and boaters face an increased risk of being arrested for drunk driving (or drunk boating) during spring break. If you have been arrested, you must be very careful to protect yourself—as driving under the influence (DUI) and boating under the influence (BUI) both carry steep penalties under Florida law.

 This is true whether you are a Florida resident or you were visiting Florida from out of town.

For Florida residents and visitors, avoiding unnecessary consequences after a spring break DUI or BUI requires an informed, cautious, and proactive approach. Here are five tips for what to do (and what not to do) if you have been charged:

1. Make Sure You Know Your Court Date

After a DUI or BUI arrest, it is critical to make sure you know your court date. Missing your court date can have serious consequences. Among them, the judge can issue a bench warrant for you to be taken into custody. While you might be anxious to get back to your normal life, right now, dealing with your DUI or BUI needs to be your top priority.

2. Request a DHSMV Hearing (After a DUI)

If you got a DUI in Florida, you are facing an automatic driver’s license suspension. To protect your right to drive while your case is pending, you must request a hearing at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) within 10 days of your arrest. 

3. Avoid Posting On Social Media

When you are awaiting trial on a DUI or BUI charge in Florida, you should avoid posting on social media. Prosecutors can (and will) use your posts against you. For the time being, you should keep all of the details of the day or night in question between you and your defense lawyer.

4. Avoid Making Assumptions About Your Case

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, you should avoid making any assumptions about your criminal case. You should not assume that you will be found guilty, nor should you assume that you will be able to beat your DUI or BUI in court. Instead, you need to be making informed decisions based on an accurate understanding of Florida law.

5. Speak with an Experienced Defense Lawyer Promptly

Given the risks you are facing and the challenges involved in successfully defending against a DUI or BUI charge in Florida, it will be important to discuss your case with an experienced defense lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced defense lawyer will be able to explain your options, help you make informed decisions, and represent you in court as necessary.

Discuss Your Florida DUI or BUI Case with a Defense Lawyer at Douglas Law Firm

Were you arrested for driving or boating under the influence during spring break in Florida? If so, we encourage you to contact us promptly. Call 800-705-5457 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation today.