DWI in the state of Florida stands for driving while intoxicated, whereas, DUI stands for driving under the influence. In Florida, your charge will be DUI if you have been pulled over due to suspected driving under the influence.
It’s important to realize that you can get a DUI anywhere-and if you’re traveling and driving in another state, their rules might be different. Whether or not you’re in your home state does not affect your record- you could be charged with DUI anywhere!
How is DWI Different?
In some states, the term DWI relates specifically to the consumption of alcohol, whereas DUI might involve alcohol, whether illegal or prescribed. This situation applies to a case in which a driver is too impaired to drive. The legal term in the state of Florida is DUI, although you will still find many people who will use the terms DUI and DWI interchangeably.
What is a Vehicle for DUI Purposes?
DUI laws apply specifically to those people driving a vehicle but remember that this vehicle could even be classified as a bicycle or a boat. Whatever you want to call this criminal term, there are serious penalties for driving under the impairment of alcohol or drugs.
The state bears the burden of responsibility in proving that you were in control over the vehicle and were impaired at the time you were pulled over. Breathalyzers, blood tests, and field sobriety tests are ones most commonly used to determine impairment.
Physical Control Of The Motor Vehicle
It must also be shown that you were in control of the vehicle at the time of the arrest. Actual physical control is a crucial element of your case, meaning that you must have possession of the key to the vehicle and in close enough proximity that it could be easily accessed and used to turn the vehicle on. This is a common issue that comes up a lot in many Florida DUI cases.
DUI Defense Attorney
When you need help with your Florida DUI claim, you need to schedule a consultation with an experienced Florida DUI defense attorney who can walk you through every aspect of your legal claim and how to avoid some of the most common challenges in protecting your freedom.