It is against the law in Tequesta to operate a motor vehicle while impaired due to the use of drugs, alcohol, or other chemical substances. The consequences of driving under the influence (DUI) could include the vehicle being impounded, the loss of your driver’s license, and even incarceration. Contact a Tequesta DUI Lawyer for assistance fighting a DUI charge.
It is especially important to work with one of our experienced Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert if you have prior DUI convictions since subsequent offenses are punished more severely. An Attorney could advocate for you and work to achieve an optimal resolution to your situation. To learn more, schedule a consultation today.
What are the Penalties for Driving Under the Influence in Tequesta?
Tequesta penalties for DUI offenses vary but typically include fines, imprisonment, suspension or revocation of the driver’s license, and mandatory use of an ignition interlock device once the license is restored. Other sanctions could include community service hours, as well as restitution if anyone was injured. The penalties are more severe for subsequent DUIs and offenses involving certain aggravating factors, such as injury to others.
A first DUI offense in which there was not an accident and no one was injured is punishable by confinement for a maximum of six months and $500 in fines. The penalties for a second offense are imprisonment for up to nine months and fines of at least $1,000. Upon conviction for a third time, sanctions include a jail sentence of up to 12 months and fines between $2,000 and $5,000.
When a person has four or more DUI convictions, the penalties include probable imprisonment or incarceration for a maximum of five years and fines up to $5,000. Causing an automobile accident that results in injury or death to another person is punishable by a 25-year prison sentence and $10,000 in fines. A Lawyer who handles DUI cases in Tequesta could explain the penalties associated with a specific DUI charge.
Regulations Prohibiting Drinking and Driving
The motor vehicle code of the 2019 Tequesta Statutes states that a person commits driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any chemical substance when any of the following occur:
- The individual’s normal capabilities are impaired
- The individual has a blood alcohol level of 0.08 grams or more of alcohol per 100 ml of blood
- The individual has a breath alcohol level of 0.08 grams or more of alcohol per 210 liters of breath
Individuals could still be subject to arrest for a DUI even if they refuse to submit to a blood or breath test. For instance, if law enforcement officers observe someone driving in a manner suggestive of being impaired and the individual smells of alcohol when pulled over, it is still possible the person will be arrested for driving under the influence despite refusing to take a breathalyzer test.
What Aggravating Circumstances Could Worsen a DUI Charge?
Several aggravating circumstances can result in a DUI charge being elevated to a felony, such as causing an accident that resulted in serious bodily injury or death to another person. Additionally, subsequent DUI offenses following a prior conviction are charged as felonies, as well. An Attorney who knows Tequesta’s DUI laws could answer questions about what constitutes driving under the influence.
Contact a Tequesta DUI Attorney
It is not advisable to fight a DUI charge on your own. The sanctions are quite severe if you have prior convictions or certain aggravating factors occurred, such as another person sustaining serious injuries. A Tequesta DUI Lawyer could provide the legal assistance you need to fight charges of driving under the influence.
In addition to defending you against DUI charges, an Attorney could also take steps to protect your legal rights. Contact one of our Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert immediately for guidance with your case.
