If you are facing the penalties of multiple DUI offenses, you’re certainly not alone. Nearly one-third of all drivers arrested for a DUI are repeat offenders. However, more alarmingly, one out of every eight drunk drivers involved in fatal collisions have had a prior DUI conviction within the last three years.
Driving under the influence isn’t something that’s taken lightly in the state of Florida. A first offense DUI conviction will remain on your record for a staggering 75 years – in addition to hefty fines, community service, license revocation and possible jail time. For multiple DUI charges, the consequences can be even more severe.
The penalties for a second DUI
In most cases, a second DUI offense in Florida is a misdemeanor. If you’re pulled over with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher for the second time within five years, you can likely anticipate:
- $1,000 to $2,000 in fines
- License suspension for up to five years
- Up to nine months of imprisonment
- Vehicle impoundment for at least 30 days
- Ignition interlock device in vehicle for at least one year
- Residential alcohol or drug abuse treatment program
If your BAC was .15 or higher or you had a minor in your vehicle at the time of your second offense, the following consequences are harsher:
- $2,000 to $4,000 in fines
- Up to 12 months of imprisonment
The penalties for a third DUI
As you might expect, the penalties of a third DUI offense in Florida can be even more rigorous. If your third offense was within 10 years of your second offense, you’d likely be looking at:
- $2,000 to $5,000 in fines
- License suspension up to 10 years
- Mandatory 30 days in jail and up to one year
- Vehicle impoundment for up to 90 days
- Ignition interlock device in vehicle for at least one year
- Residential alcohol or drug abuse treatment program
Driving drunk comes with long-lasting consequences. A criminal record involves more than just repercussions and punishment – it can haunt virtually every aspect of your life.
