The High Costs of DUI in Florida

Driving under the influence is a serious offense. It puts more at stake than just the license or reputation of the driver. When a driver gets behind the wheel of a car while intoxicated, they risk the lives of others around them as well. While DUI laws are generally strict no matter where the offense occurs, they do vary from state to state. Where does our state fall on this scale? Here’s what Floridians need to know.

In Florida, a first offense for DUI brings no minimum jail time. Imprisonment is completely at the court’s discretion. Pre-trial diversion programs are also offered for first time offenders, which means that the driver may be able to complete an alcohol treatment or rehabilitation program as an alternative to prosecution.

The first conviction can cost the offender as much as $1,000 in fines alone–not including attorney fees and other court costs. Furthermore, if an accident results from DUI convictions, there are other separate considerations one should make. According to Fort Lauderdale attorney Englander Peebles, "We have seen a wide range when it comes to the total cost of a first-offense DUI. That's because it depends on many different factors, including fines, court costs and legal fees.“

Since 2004, .08% or higher has been the blood alcohol concentration at which a driver is charged with DUI in all 50 states (down from .10% previously). Florida DUI laws provide for enhanced penalties when someone is convicted of DUI and the alcohol concentration is over .15. Other factors can also compound the punishment for DUI in Florida, including being involved in an accident, or having an underage passenger in the vehicle.

First time offenders can expect their license to be suspended anywhere from six months to a year. Judges are also required to place first time offenders on probation in Florida, although this period typically won’t exceed a year. During this time, the offender will likely be required to complete at least 50 hours of community service.

Suspended licenses can drastically disrupt lives, so many DUI defendants seek alternatives or work exemptions. Though the driver’s license may be suspended for up to a year depending on the verdict, after 30 days he or she can request a work permit or what’s sometimes called a hardship license. This can allow the driver to go to and from work, pick their kids up from school or handle other family affairs. Because decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, there may be additional costs or the possibility of losing the license for a longer period of time.

In some cases in which the driver has had multiple convictions or is approved for a work permit or hardship license, the judge will require an ignition interlock device (IID) or breathalyzer to be installed in the vehicle. With one of these devices installed, the driver must blow a .0% into the machine before the vehicle is able to start. IID’s also require sporadic tests while the vehicle is in motion.

A judge might also order an IID to be installed after the driver’s license is no longer suspended. These devices might be required in the vehicle for as little as six months, or for years, depending on the situation. It’s important to note that the upkeep of an IID is costly as well. The installation alone may cost up to $150, and the monthly calibration and leasing can cost up to $100.

For a second offense in Florida, there is a minimum jail time of 10 days required, and the cost can be as high as $2,000 in fines. On the third offense, DUI is an automatic felony and can cost anywhere up to $5,000.

Taking court costs, legal fees, fines, and other registration fees into account, a DUI conviction can easily mean spending thousands of dollars, even if it’s the first offense. The average cost of DUI in Florida is just under $3,500 in fines alone.

Being convicted of DUI means taking a huge financial hit, but it goes much further than that. Having a DUI conviction on your permanent record can affect your current employment, future employment and/or schooling. You and your family will likely experience financial stress, as well as the logistical impact of your license being suspended.

If you do find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of facing a DUI charge, it’s important to have an experienced DUI attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and evaluate your options. Also, consider that the national average cost for using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft is a mere $15 per ride. Consider how low that number is compared to everything at risk when you drive under the influence–no matter where you live. Eliminate any unneeded risk and make the responsible choice when you’re out drinking.