Although Florida passed on expanding car breathalyzer (ignition interlock) requirements this legislative session, the state still has plenty of ways to hold you accountable for driving under the influence (DUI). When you are stopped by law enforcement, everything can be a blur, and that’s not even if you’ve been drinking. Sometimes, you may seem so intoxicated, that the officer doesn’t even request a blood sample. Whether or not you’ve been drinking, the law states that if you are arrested for a DUI, you can request a Florida BAC test yourself as a way to document the incident and prepare for court.
WHY would you want your own Florida BAC test?
If you are found guilty of a DUI in Florida, there are consequences for your actions. Even a low BAC first-offense conviction means that you’ll have fines and court costs to pay, a suspended license and more. With a high BAC or more than one conviction, you are guaranteed even more penalties for driving under the influence, as well as an ignition interlock requirement. Documenting your Florida BAC at the time of your arrest can make a difference in the outcome of your criminal case, and you have every right to make sure that happens. Consult your attorney to find out if this is the right thing for you to do.
Of course, in that blur of a traffic stop where you may or may not be arrested for a DUI, you’re probably not going to put your foot down and demand a Florida BAC test. You can, however, eliminate the possibility of needing that proof entirely by being a safe, responsible driver or by having a safe ride home if you will be drinking. Then, you have no reason to worry about court, BAC or whether your future includes an ignition interlock requirement or any of the penalties for drinking and driving in Florida.
This Taxi Driver Sees Your North Carolina DWI