What is a DUI?
DUI means Driving Under the Influence. Driving under the influence (DUI) is defined as driving or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcoholic beverages, a chemical substance and/or a controlled substance to the extent that a person’s normal faculties are impaired. A blood alcohol level (BAC) of .08 also qualifies as driving under the influence. Normal faculties include but are not limited to the ability to walk, talk, judge distances, drive an automobile, and make judgments. A DUI will remain on your driving record for 75 years.
A DUI, even if it is your first mistake, can cost you more than just money. It can lead to a fine, community service, probation, jail time, vehicle impoundment, and/or loss of your driver’s license.
Driving under the influence does not require you to actually be driving your vehicle. All that is required is actual physical control of the vehicle. If you are sitting in the driver seat of the car with your keys in the ignition but you are merely parked in a parking lot, you are operating your vehicle and can be arrested for a DUI. As long as you are physically in or on the vehicle and have the capability to operate the vehicle, regardless of whether you are operating the vehicle at the time, then you may be in actual physical control of the vehicle.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has more information on what to do if you have been convicted of a DUI.
