If you're a driver in Atlantic Beach, FL, it's essential to understand the serious consequences that come with a DUI charge. A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life, from legal ramifications to personal consequences. Whether it's your first offense or you've been charged before, knowing how to navigate the legal system is crucial. Below are five important things every driver in Atlantic Beach, FL should know about DUI charges.

1. Florida DUI Laws Are Strict, and Penalties Can Be Severe

Florida’s DUI laws are known for being tough. The state has a zero-tolerance policy for impaired driving, meaning that even if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is below the legal limit of 0.08%, you could still face DUI charges if your driving is impaired.

Penalties for DUI convictions in Florida can include hefty fines, mandatory community service, a license suspension, mandatory DUI education programs, and even jail time. The severity of the penalties often depends on factors such as your BAC level, whether you have prior DUI convictions, and if there were any aggravating circumstances, such as causing an accident or injuring someone.

If you're facing a DUI charge, it's critical to consult with a skilled DUI attorney in Atlantic Beach, FL to understand your legal options and protect your rights.

2. You Can Be Arrested Even if You're Not “Drunk”

Many drivers mistakenly believe that they can only be arrested for DUI if they're visibly intoxicated. However, Florida law allows police officers to arrest a driver if they have reasonable suspicion that the driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs. This can include behaviors such as erratic driving, slow response times, or slurred speech.

In addition to alcohol, other substances like prescription drugs or marijuana can lead to DUI charges. If you are arrested under suspicion of DUI, it's crucial to remain calm and request legal assistance immediately.

3. Refusing a Breathalyzer Test Could Have Consequences

When you are pulled over in Atlantic Beach, FL, and suspected of DUI, the officer may ask you to submit to a breathalyzer test to determine your BAC. Florida operates under "implied consent," meaning that by driving on the state’s roads, you’ve already agreed to take a chemical test if requested by law enforcement.

If you refuse a breathalyzer test, you could face additional penalties, including a mandatory driver's license suspension for up to a year. While refusal may seem like an option to avoid incriminating yourself, it often leads to more legal trouble in the long run. Consulting with a DUI attorney in Atlantic Beach, FL can help you make an informed decision if you're ever in this situation.

4. DUI Charges Can Affect Your License

One of the most immediate impacts of a DUI charge in Florida is the potential for a suspended or revoked driver’s license. In some cases, your license could be suspended automatically, even before a conviction occurs, depending on whether you refuse a breathalyzer or blow above the legal limit.

If your license is suspended, you may be able to apply for a restricted license to drive to work or school. A skilled DUI attorney in Atlantic Beach, FL can assist you with appealing the suspension and exploring options for reinstating your driving privileges.

5. An Experienced DUI Attorney Can Help You Build a Strong Defense

Facing a DUI charge can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. A qualified DUI attorney in Atlantic Beach, FL can help you understand your rights, challenge the evidence, and build a strong defense strategy. There may be flaws in the evidence against you, such as improperly administered field sobriety tests or issues with the breathalyzer device. An experienced attorney will know how to identify these issues and use them to your advantage.

Epstein & Robbins has a proven track record of helping clients in Atlantic Beach navigate DUI charges. With years of experience in Florida DUI defense, we are here to provide the guidance and representation you need during this challenging time. If you’ve been charged with DUI, don’t wait to get the legal help you deserve.

Protect Your Future with Epstein & Robbins

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in Atlantic Beach, FL, it’s important to act quickly. The legal consequences of a DUI conviction can impact many aspects of your life, including your driving privileges, personal reputation, and employment opportunities. However, with the help of a skilled DUI attorney in Atlantic Beach, FL, you can fight the charges and work toward the best possible outcome.

At Epstein & Robbins, we understand the complexities of DUI defense and are committed to protecting your rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your future. Call us at 904-354-5645   or visit our contact page  to get the legal representation you deserve.