Consequences of a DUI Hit and Run in Florida
Getting behind the wheel while intoxicated is a serious offense in Florida, but the stakes become even higher if you are involved in a hit-and-run. When a driver leaves the scene of an accident, whether it involves injuries or not, is considered a hit and run, and when combined with DUI charges, the consequences are even more severe. Both charges carry significant legal penalties that can affect your personal freedom, finances, and future.
Understanding the legal implications of these charges and knowing what to expect can make all the difference if you are facing such serious accusations.
At The Law Office of Nayib Hassan, we know how devastating DUI hit-and-run charges can be and how it will impact your life. In this article, we will explore the consequences of a DUI hit-and-run in Florida and how an experienced defense attorney can help protect your rights.
How is a DUI hit and run defined in Florida?
A DUI hit-and-run in Florida involves two distinct but connected violations. First, under Florida Statute § 316.027, all drivers involved in accidents causing injury or death are legally required to stop at the scene, provide necessary assistance, and exchange information with the other parties involved. Failing to do so constitutes a hit-and-run offense.
Secondly, Florida Statute § 316.193 prohibits operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which impairs normal faculties such as judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
When a driver is involved in a hit-and-run while impaired, they may face charges under both statutes. This means a combination of penalties for leaving the scene of an accident and for driving under the influence, leading to more severe legal consequences.
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs to the extent that normal faculties like reaction time, perception, or coordination are diminished.
Hit-and-Run
Fleeing the scene of an accident without stopping to offer assistance or exchange information, as required by Florida law. Hit-and-run charges can apply to accidents involving property damage, injury, or death.
Penalties for leaving the scene of an accident while intoxicated
In Florida, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense, but when combined with driving under the influence (DUI), the penalties become even more severe.
If you flee the scene of a crash without DUI involvement, you can potentially face fines ranging from $500 up to $10,000 and a jail term of 60 days and up to 30 years if the accident results in a fatality.
However, when alcohol or drugs are involved, a DUI charge is added on top of the hit-and-run violation, resulting in harsher consequences.
DUI convictions in Florida can carry fines from $500 to $5,000, probation, or even a jail sentence of six months or more, depending on the severity of the accident and any prior convictions.
In addition to fines and jail time, several other penalties can be imposed, including:
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license
- Loss of your vehicle
- Mandatory participation in a DUI education program
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
- Required community service
Potential felony charges for a DUI Hit and Run
In Florida, a DUI hit-and-run can escalate to a felony charge if the accident results in serious bodily injury or death. Felony charges for this type of offense come with severe consequences, which can include a lengthy prison sentence.
Depending on the circumstances, such as the extent of the injuries or property damage, a defendant could face anywhere from several years to decades in prison.
If the accident leads to a fatality, the charge becomes a first-degree felony, which can result in a possible decade’s long prison sentence. Additional aggravating factors, like leaving the scene of a crime, can also increase the severity of the penalties.
Beyond imprisonment, defendants may also face significant fines, typically ranging into thousands of dollars. DUI hit-and-run convictions can lead to collateral consequences such as:
- Increased insurance premiums
- Difficulty obtaining employment or housing
- Permanent damage to personal and professional reputation
Why Choose Nayib Hassan to represent your DUI Hit and Run?
When facing serious DUI hit-and-run charges in Florida, choosing the right attorney is crucial. At the Law Office of Nayib Hassan, you will have a dedicated advocate with a background as a former prosecutor who has handled thousands of cases from misdemeanors to felonies and tried hundreds to verdict.
Nayib Hassan thoroughly evaluates each case’s unique facts, identifying strengths and weaknesses to build the most effective defense strategy. Known for his commitment to one-on-one communication and meticulous attention to detail, Mr. Hassan goes above and beyond to protect clients’ rights, ensuring they receive the best possible outcome. Contact the Law Office of Nayib Hassan, P.A. today at (305) 403-7323 for a free and confidential discussion about your case.
