Florida DUI law takes a very stern approach to deter drunk driving. Florida imposes harsh penalties to deter drivers from operating an automobile while under the influence of alcohol. The penalties for a drunk driving conviction can include imprisonment, fine, ignition interlock installation, vehicle impoundment and revocation of the driver's license. If you have been arrested for a DUI you should contact an experienced Tampa DUI attorney right away. A Tampa DUI lawyer can advise you on the possible penalties that may be imposed if you are found guilty, and plan a legal strategy to help defend against the charges.

Under Florida DUI law, the court may require a driver convicted of a DUI to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. An ignition interlock device is located inside the car, near the driver's seat, and wired to the engine's ignition system. The driver will be required to blow into the device's mouthpiece every time the vehicle is started. The ignition interlock device measures the driver's blood alcohol level, and is similar to a breathalyzer test machine used by police officers. If the driver's blood alcohol level exceeds the legal limit, the ignition interlock device will prevent the vehicle from being started.

If the driver has a blood alcohol level below .15 and no prior DUI convictions the installation of the device will not be mandatory. The ignition interlock device may be troublesome to drivers; however, it is often a better alternative than imprisonment. Therefore, a Tampa DUI lawyer will often try to persuade the court that this is the appropriate punishment for their client, rather than imprisonment.

 If the driver was operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level above .15 or has previous DUI convictions, the driver will be required to install the device in his vehicle. Under Florida DUI law, installation of an interlock ignition device is mandatory under these conditions. In some cases the ignition interlock may be required to be installed for more than 5 years. However, a Tampa DUI attorney may be able to persuade the court to reduce the length of time the driver is required to have the device installed in his vehicle.

Florida DUI law is a set of interwoven and complex laws. If you have been arrested for a DUI you should seek the counsel of an experienced Tampa DUI lawyer. A Tampa DUI attorney can help explain the law in detail and provide you with a legal strategy to mitigate the effects of your DUI arrest.