What are the Penalties for Drunk Driving in a School Zone in Orlando?
The State of Florida takes drunk driving very seriously. The penalties if you’re caught driving under the influence are onerous. The penalties can escalate when certain aggravating factors are present. One of the aggravating factors that can lead to enhanced penalties is when you’re caught driving under the influence in a school zone. In this article, the Orlando DUI attorneys at FL DUI Group will discuss the penalties for operating a vehicle while drunk in a school zone.
Understanding drunk driving charges in Orlando
In Florida, driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is considered a crime. It is defined as operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol to the extent that your normal faculties are affected. Specifically, if law enforcement concludes that your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08 percent or above, then you are considered per se drunk. However, law enforcement can arrest an individual for DUI even if their BAC is below the legal limit if their ability to drive safely is impaired.
Understanding school zones in Orlando
Orlando school zones are marked with signs and school speed zone flashers. School zones can be demarcated on roads in front of school property and on areas of the street that elementary or middle school children use to cross the street at established crossings.
What are the penalties for driving under the influence in a school zone?
If you’re charged with driving drunk in an Orlando school zone, you could face enhanced penalties. School zones were initially established for speeding violations, but judges will take seriously any allegation of intoxication around children. Judges will be less likely to be lenient and more inclined to impose the maximum possible sentence on an individual who is caught driving under the influence in a school zone. Your sentence could include:
- Jail time – Jail time is rare for DUIs, but a judge may be inclined to sentence you to jail time if you endangered the lives of children while operating your vehicle under the influence.
- Fines – A judge could impose higher fines on an individual who was caught under the influence in a school zone.
- License suspension – You can lose your driver’s license for drunk driving near a school. The time before you can get it back may be longer if aggravating factors are present.
- Ignition interlock device – The court could require that you install an ignition interlock device at your own expense for driving under the influence in a school zone.
- More severe probation terms – You could face stricter probation terms, including more frequent check-ins and more required programs.
While this may all sound very intimidating, it’s important to remember that an arrest on charges of DUI is not the same as a conviction. You may not face any of these penalties unless you are convicted and sentenced for drunk driving.
Talk to an Orlando DUI Defense Lawyer Today
Facing DUI charges? Call the Florida DUI defense lawyers at FL DUI Group today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing your defense immediately.
