A second-offense DUI in Florida is typically considered a misdemeanor, however serious none the less, leaving the driver open to hefty fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, mandatory jail time, and more. The penalties are further enhanced if the driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15% or more, was involved in an accident that resulted in property damage or someone being injured, or had a passenger under the age of 18. The following provides information on what can be expected from a second DUI offense.
Penalties
Fines: $1,000 to $2,000; with a BAL of .15 BAL or higher or with a minor in the vehicle, $2,000 to $4,000
Imprisonment: Minimum 10-day imprisonment with at least 48 hours of consecutive confinement for second-offenders, with a conviction within the last 5-years. The maximum sentences depend on the specific circumstance of each DUI, as listed below:
- Nine months for a standard second DUI
- One year for a second DUI with a BAC of .15% or higher or with a passenger under the age of 18 or if there was an accident involving property damage or minor injuries
- Five years for all DUIs that involved “serious bodily injury”
Vehicle Impoundment: 30 days *The court may dismiss impoundment if the vehicle is owned by a company, or the vehicle is shared and the impoundment would result in hardship.
Driver’s License Revocation: Minimum of 180 days – DUI Conviction, a person whose license has been suspended can typically apply for a hardship (drive only to and from work, school, church, and medical appointments).
Ignition Interlock Devices: Mandatory one-year with a second DUI offense
A DUI is a serious charge, one that requires the assistance of a knowledgeable and experienced DUI attorney. If you are facing a DUI conviction and are in the Tampa Bay area, please call our office today at 813-907-9807 for more information to schedule a consultation.
