Residents and visitors of Tampa Bay await Gasparilla every single year. For some, it’s an excuse to dress up like their favorite swashbuckler; for others, it means parties from sunrise until sunset.
As the best DWI attorneys in Clearwater, the team at The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan is committed to ensuring our clients enjoy their Gasparilla this year and avoid a DUI.
Areas of Increased Law Enforcement Presence
During Gasparilla, law enforcement significantly increases its presence in high-traffic areas. While they are meant to promote public safety, they result in a higher likelihood of drivers being stopped.
Keep a special eye out for:
- 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
To minimize your risk of getting a DUI, plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using rideshare services, or arranging for alternative transportation.
Field Sobriety Tests and BAC Levels
If you get stopped by law enforcement, you must understand your rights. While you may be asked to perform field sobriety tests or submit to a breathalyzer test, you are not legally required to perform field sobriety tests in Florida. However, refusing a breathalyzer or chemical test can potentially result in an automatic license suspension or arrest under the implied consent law.
Be polite to the officer(s) conducting your DUI stop, but remember that you have the right to remain silent and do not have to answer incriminating questions without legal counsel from a top Clearwater DUI lawyer with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.
Know Your Rights and Request a DUI Hearing
If you are arrested for a DUI, you have just 10 days to request a hearing to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and provides you with the opportunity to retain your driving privileges potentially. Ensure you have legal representation and request your hearing to avoid complicating your DUI case.
Contact an Experienced DUI Lawyer Immediately
If you’re facing DUI charges, reaching out to the best DWI attorneys in Clearwater is one of the most important steps to take. At The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, we understand how stressful an arrest can be, so take measures to avoid a DUI this Gasparilla.
]If you are facing a DUI charge after enjoying Gasparilla festivities, you need to consult with a top Clearwater DUI lawyer. For a complimentary DUI case consultation, call our office at (727) 291-9717.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.