The Fourth of July is one of the most active days for law enforcement in Pinellas County regarding DUIs. For young drivers taking part in festivities, police officers are increasingly present with numerous saturation patrols or “DUI Wolfpacks.” Florida has a strict zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving, and as the top DUI attorneys in Clearwater, The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan wants you to celebrate your freedom without losing your driving privileges.
Florida’s Zero-Tolerance Law for Underage Drivers
In Florida, drivers under the age of 21 have a significantly lower legal blood alcohol limit than adults over the legal driving age. While the adult BAC limit is 0.08%, anyone under 21 can face serious consequences if they are found driving with even a BAC of 0.02% or higher. Reaching a BAC of 0.02% often only takes up to one drink, depending on body weight and metabolism.
For a first violation, a driver may face an immediate administrative suspension of their driver’s license for six months. A second violation carries a longer one-year suspension. If the driver refuses to submit to a breath test, the suspension is extended to 12 months, even if no alcohol is ultimately detected. These penalties are added on top of any additional criminal charges that may be filed, such as reckless driving or possession of alcohol by a minor. Due to the severity of a DUI charge for a minor, the first step that needs to be taken is to talk with an experienced Clearwater DWI lawyer with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.
DUI Saturation Patrols and Your Rights
DUI Saturation Patrols are legal under Florida law, and are a common occurrence during holiday weekends like the Fourth of July. These coordinated efforts are meant to prevent impaired driving in Pinellas County and typically occur in higher-traffic areas. Likely spots for increased police presence may include:
- Memorial Causeway leaving Clearwater Beach
- 4th Street in St. Petersburg, particularly near downtown
- Courtney Campbell Causeway westbound from Tampa
- Gulf Boulevard from St. Pete Beach to Indian Shores
- Largo, specifically around Ulmerton Road and US Highway 19 North
If you are stopped by law enforcement you are legally required to stop and provide your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. However, you are not required to answer any questions about where you’ve been or whether you’ve been drinking. You have the right to remain silent, after providing your identification, until you consult with top DUI attorneys in Clearwater at the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.
Tips for Staying Safe and Legal This 4th of July
For those planning to celebrate the holiday with an alcoholic beverage, the safest choice is to plan ahead. Using a rideshare service, such as Uber or Lyft, can help you avoid any risk of driving under the influence. If you can’t get a rideshare, the best option is to have a safe place to sleep, whether that be at a loved one’s residence or at a hotel.
If You’ve Been Charged this Fourth of July, Take the First Step Towards Freedom and Speak with a DUI Attorney
If you or your child has been arrested for DUI or charged with underage drinking and driving, it’s important to act quickly. A DUI arrest, even if it does not result in a criminal conviction, can result in lasting consequences on your record, your driving privileges, and your future.
Arrested for a DUI? Get your complimentary DUI case consultation from the best Clearwater DWI lawyer or call our office at (727) 291-9717 for more information.