Arrested for Drunk Driving? Avoid These Common Mistakes
Driving under the influence is a serious mistake that can result in harsh penalties and a lifetime of problems. However, any errors you commit after the arrest could only make matters worse—so it’s important to take a deep breath so that you don’t do something you’ll later regret.
While it might feel like a conviction is a foregone conclusion, there will almost always be an opportunity to fight the charges. Taking the right steps in the aftermath could make all the difference, potentially helping you reduce the penalties or even have the charges against you dismissed.
Let’s look at a few mistakes you should avoid:
1. You Posted about the Arrest on Social Media
In the heat of the moment following an arrest, it might be tempting to hop onto social media to share the details of this traumatic encounter. However, your actions in the digital space could come back to haunt you as it’s not unheard of for the prosecution to use posts, pictures, and even reviews as evidence to secure a conviction. In most situations, it’s best to disable your social media profiles for the duration of proceedings.
2. You Missed an Important Deadline
If you were arrested for driving under the influence, you will have a small window of time to make sure you don’t lose your license. In Florida, those charged with a DUI have up to 10 days after the arrest to take certain steps to have their license restored.
Missing this deadline could result in you losing your license for a year or longer, depending on whether this is your first, second, third, or subsequent offense. Thankfully, a DUI attorney can keep track of any important dates to make sure that you don’t overshoot any deadlines.
3. You Continued Driving without a License
Driving without a license is a serious offense in Florida—especially if you’re facing drunk driving charges. While it’s tempting to hop behind the wheel while your case is pending, doing so could result in the judge revoking your bond, potentially leaving you stuck in jail until your case has concluded.
4. You Assumed a Conviction Was Inevitable
Many people arrested for drunk driving assume that their fate is sealed. However, there is almost always an opportunity to fight the charges to have the penalties reduced, provide evidence that could result in the case against you being dismissed, or take a plea deal with the prosecution. A DUI attorney can help investigate the arrest to gather the necessary proof to support your defense.
Speak to a DUI Lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens Today
If you were arrested for driving under the influence, it’s important to consider your actions carefully. A skilled Florida DUI lawyer can help you navigate proceedings, advising you of common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Attorney Todd A. Kawecki understands that even those with the best of intentions can find themselves on the wrong side of the law. From the moment you hire him, he can fight aggressively to protect your rights throughout proceedings. Call us today at 772-485-4500 or tap through to our Contact Form to lock in a free consultation.