What Happens if You Have Multiple DUIs in Tampa, FL?
Having more than one driving under the influence conviction on your record makes your life more complicated, more expensive, and if you’re convicted again, much more difficult. If you have this history on your record, you need to take steps to avoid another DUI arrest.
Avoid illegal drugs, especially if you’re drinking. Even some over-the-counter or prescription medications in combination with a drink or two can impair you far more than just the alcohol.
Suppose you have a substance abuse problem; the best way to prevent multiple DUIs is to get treatment and stop drinking. You may avoid future arrests and accidents that could leave you and others seriously injured or killed. Part of a DUI sentence may include successfully getting through treatment.
Florida DUI Penalties
Sentences for a DUI conviction depend on your record and the circumstances of what happened, such as whether you caused an accident, a minor was in the vehicle with you, or whether your blood alcohol content was greater than 0.15%.
If your BAC is higher than 0.15%, there are higher fines, longer possible jail sentences, and the required use of an ignition interlock device.
Penalties for First DUI with a BAC less than 0.15%
The penalties for a first DUI offense in Tampa are:
- Up to six months in jail and up to a year of probation
- A fine of up to $1,000
- 50 hours of community service
- Driver’s license is revoked from 180 days to a year
- Vehicle impounded for ten days
- Level one DUI school
Penalties for Second DUI with a BAC less than 0.15%
- Up to nine months in jail and up to a year of probation
- A fine of up to $2,000
- Driver’s license is revoked from 180 days to a year
- Vehicle impounded for 30 days
- Six months with an ignition interlock device
- Level two DUI school
When the second DUI is within five years of your first, you must spend at least ten days in jail, and your license will be revoked for five years.
Penalties for Multiple DUIs
If you are convicted of a third DUI within ten years of your prior two convictions, or a fourth DUI at any time, you’ll be charged with a felony. You’ll face:
- Up to five years in prison with a minimum of 30 days in jail
- Fines up to $5,000
- Vehicle impounded for 90 days
- Driver’s license is revoked for ten years
- Two years with an ignition interlock device
- Level three DUI school
How Multiple DUIs Impact the Rest of Your Life
If you need to spend time at court, talking to a probation officer, attending DUI school, plus jail time, how will that impact your job? How much time can you spend away from work before you lose your job? Other issues include:
- Your record may need to be disclosed on job applications
- A potential landlord may not want a tenant with a record (and will do a background check to make sure)
- If you’re not a citizen, a conviction will affect your immigration status — depending on the circumstances, it could lead to deportation
- If you’re involved in a child custody dispute, your conviction may make a judge think it’s not in your child’s best interests to give you custody
- Your ability to obtain or maintain a professional license may be impacted
- You may lose your rights to possess firearms and vote
In addition, the average auto insurance rate increase for drivers with a DUI is 74%, according to Forbes.
A DUI conviction can never be expunged or sealed from your record, meaning you must live with the consequences for the rest of your life.
Attorney Brett Metcalf Can Help You Get the Best Outcome Possible
When facing the consequences of multiple DUI charges in Tampa, retain an attorney who focuses on criminal defense. Unlike public defenders, Tampa DUI Attorney Brett Metcalf has the time and resources to fight for the best outcome in your case.
Contact Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A., through the online form or by calling 813-258-4800.