Spring and Summer Often See an Increase in Drunk Driving

As the weather warms and summer quickly approaches, many of us will be attending various parties and events that often involve the consumption of alcohol. The upcoming months often see proms, graduations, Memorial Day parties, as well as social events that are simply celebrating the return of the summer warmth. Law enforcement agencies across Florida are aware of this fact and often increase their patrols and enforcement efforts accordingly. As a result, it is extremely likely many unfortunate Floridians and visitors to the state will be facing allegations of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) in the next few months.

Florida law imposes significant penalties on people who are convicted of drunk driving. As a result, it is important for people facing allegations of DUI to present the strongest legal defense possible. Retaining an attorney is often the first step in ensuring that your legal rights are protected.

Avoiding a Florida DUI

Of course, the simplest way to avoid a DUI is to simply not drink and drive. Problems often arise when people fail to plan ahead and perhaps have impaired judgment due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages, causing them to drive when they perhaps should not. There are some steps that people can take to reduce their risk of being arrested for DUI. These include the following:

• Using a designated driver;
• Having the number to a cab company readily available;
• Using public transportation;
• Knowing your limits; and/or
• Waiting an appropriate amount of time after consuming alcohol before driving, even if this means leaving your vehicle somewhere overnight.

Additionally, all parents of young drivers should warn their children of the potential dangers and consequences of a DUI and other related charges. Teenage drivers often do not fully realize the severe effects that a DUI can have and underage DUI convictions can have an especially adverse effect on their future. Having convictions for DUI and related offenses on a criminal record can affect admission to colleges and graduate programs, eligibility for certain financial aid, eligibility for jobs that require a clean driving record and more. These consequences are in addition to any court-imposed fines and/or jail time, and the penalties will only increase if there are more convictions including for minor in possession, causing DUI accidents or injuries, having a fake ID, and more.

Milestone events such as prom and graduation should be enjoyable and you should do everything you can to avoid any DUI arrests or charges during this time.

Contact a Boca Raton criminal defense attorney today to schedule a free consultation

Individuals who are facing accusations of drunk driving in Florida should discuss their options with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. In many cases, the representation of an attorney will result in a much better outcome for people accused of DUI than if they tried to represent themselves. The lawyers of Lavalle Brown & Ronan are skilled criminal defense litigators who understand how to work with prosecutors to get our clients favorable results. To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, please call our office today at 855-BOCALAW.

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