A Law Firm Where
You Are Our Top Priority

What are the consequences for a hit-and-run DUI offense?

On Behalf of | Jun 15, 2020 | blog

Florida law prohibits individuals from driving motor vehicles if they have a blood alcohol concentration over the state’s 0.08% legal limit. Nevertheless, if you drive under the influence of alcohol and have a collision, you should remain at the accident scene until officers arrive. 

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense in the Sunshine State. The same is true for drunk driving. Therefore, if you are facing charges for either offense, it is vital to defend yourself aggressively. You should also understand the potential consequences for a hit-and-run DUI offense. 

Your accident obligations 

If you have a motor vehicle accident, Florida law requires you to take certain steps. These include the following: 

  • Report the accident to law enforcement officials 
  • Remain at or near the accident scene 
  • Present your driver’s license to the other driver or a police officer 
  • Provide reasonable assistance to injured individuals 

While Florida law requires you to act reasonably after an accident, there is a significant exception. If your safety is at risk, you may be able to skip some of the above steps. Still, you always have an obligation to contact law enforcement quickly after an accident. Remember, being under the influence of drugs or alcohol is usually not a sufficient reason to skirt your accident obligations. 

Legal penalties for a hit-and-run DUI offense 

If your BAC is over the legal limit when you leave the scene of an accident, you are vulnerable to two types of legal consequences. First, you face DUI penalties, such as incarceration or a suspension of your driving privileges. You also face penalties for the hit-and-run accident. The nature of these penalties often depends on the severity of the accident, including the extent of injuries and property damage. 

Your liability may not stop there, however. You may also experience a variety of related consequences, such as elevated insurance rates or even loss of employment. As a result, when planning your defense, you must work carefully to address all possible consequences of your hit-and-run DUI offense. 

FindLaw Network