St. Petersburg DUI with Property Damage Attorney

Defending Clients Facing DUI and Property Damage Charges in Tampa Bay

If you have been arrested for DUI with property damage, contact the Morris Law Firm team. Our St. Petersburg DUI with property damage lawyer represents men and women charged in the greater Tampa Bay area, including Clearwater and St. Petersburg in Pinellas County; Bradenton in Manatee County; Sarasota in Sarasota County; Tampa in Hillsborough County, and Dade City or New Port Richey in Pasco County, Florida.

Facing DUI with Property Damage Charges? Don't risk your future—contact us today for a strong defense. Call (727) 592-5885 for a free consultation!

Understanding DUI with Property Damage Cases

A DUI with property damage occurs when a person is arrested for driving under the influence and, while impaired, causes damage to someone else's property. This could include damage to vehicles, buildings, or other structures.

After a DUI arrest with property damage, you may have several immediate concerns. First, most people are extremely worried about whether the other person involve in the accident will make a personal injury claim against their insurance or against them personally.

Secondly, many people are worried whether another person’s injuries will be considered serious or non-serious. Finally, anyone arrested for a DUI involving property damage will worry about how to avoid the conviction.

Common Defenses For a DUI with Property Damage Charge

Special defenses exist in these cases for DUI with property damage, including:

• Suppressing statements as a result of the accident report privilege.
• Failure to read Miranda warnings.
• Problems proving who was driving at the time of the accident.
• Illegal stop or arrest.
• Inaccurate breathalyzer results.
• Faulty road conditions

Legal Consequences For a DUI with Property Damage in Tampa Bay

Florida Statute Section 316.193(3) proves that any person who causes property damage or personal injury to another while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is guilty of a first-degree misdemeanor.

The maximum penalty is one year of jail and a $1,000 fine. Other mandatory minimum sentencing provisions may apply depending on whether any prior DUI convictions exist, such as:

• Probation - Terms can include regular check-ins, community service, and substance abuse education
• Driver’s license suspension or revocation
• Restitution
• Vehicle impoundment
• Criminal record

Aggravating Factors in DUI with Property Damage Cases

Some DUI with property damage cases carry harsher penalties due to certain aggravating factors. These factors can increase fines, jail time, or other consequences:

• Repeat Offenses – If you have prior DUI convictions, penalties can be much more severe, including longer license suspensions and mandatory jail time.
• Injuries to Others – If someone is hurt in the accident, the charges may escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony, leading to heavier fines and possible prison time.
• High BAC Levels – Florida law imposes stricter penalties for drivers with a BAC of 0.15 or higher, including higher fines and longer ignition interlock requirements.

Understanding these factors can help you and your attorney prepare a stronger defense.

Steps to Take After a DUI with Property Damage Arrest

Being arrested for DUI with property damage can be overwhelming. Here’s what you should do to protect your rights:

• At the Scene:
  • Stay at the scene and check for injuries.
  • Call 911 if medical attention is needed.
  • Avoid admitting fault—anything you say can be used against you later.
• When Speaking to Law Enforcement:
  • Be polite but do not volunteer unnecessary information.
  • You have the right to remain silent—exercise it if needed.
  • Refusing sobriety tests may have legal consequences, but in some cases, it can be a strategic decision.
• After the Arrest:
  • Write down details of the incident while they are fresh in your mind.
  • Contact a DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible to begin building your case.
  • Avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney.

Potential Alternative Sentencing Options

In some cases, there are ways to reduce the penalties or avoid jail time. Courts may offer alternative sentencing, especially for first-time offenders.

• DUI Diversion Programs – Some counties offer programs where charges can be reduced or dismissed if the defendant completes alcohol education, community service, and probation.
• Community Service – Instead of jail time, courts may require a certain number of community service hours.
• Alcohol Education & Treatment – Completing alcohol treatment or DUI school may help reduce penalties and prevent future offenses.

An experienced attorney can help explore these options and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact Morris Law Firm Today - Call (727) 592-5885

If you have been arrested for DUI with property damage or personal injury, contact an experienced DUI with property damage lawyer in St. Petersburg to discuss the particular facts of your case.

We can help by analyzing the evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, representing you in court, and working to reduce the charges or penalties. If needed, we will create potential defenses and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I Be Sued for Damages in Addition to Facing Criminal Charges?

• Yes, in addition to criminal penalties, you may also face civil lawsuits from the property owner seeking compensation for the damages caused. This can result in additional financial liabilities beyond the criminal court's penalties.

How does a DUI with property damage differ from a DUI with personal injury?

• A DUI with property damage involves only damage to property, while a DUI with personal injury includes harm to individuals. The latter is more severe and can result in felony charges, higher fines, and longer prison sentences.

Will I Lose My Driver’s License After a DUI with Property Damage?

• Yes, a DUI conviction in Florida can lead to a driver's license suspension. For a first offense, your license may be suspended for 6 months to 1 year. If you refused a breath, blood, or urine test, the suspension could be up to 18 months. However, you may qualify for a hardship license to drive for work or essential needs.

Can I Be Charged with DUI with Property Damage if I Wasn’t Driving My Car?

• Yes, you can still face DUI charges if law enforcement determines that you were in actual physical control of the vehicle. This means even if you weren’t driving at the time of arrest—such as sitting in the driver’s seat with the engine on—you could still be charged.

How Long Will a DUI with Property Damage Stay on My Record?

• A DUI conviction in Florida remains on your criminal record permanently. Unlike other misdemeanors, DUI convictions cannot be expunged or sealed, making it crucial to fight the charges from the start.

Will I Have to Pay for the Property Damage Out of Pocket?

• If convicted, you may be ordered to pay restitution to cover the cost of repairs. However, your auto insurance may cover some of the damages, depending on your policy. If the damages exceed coverage limits, you could be held financially responsible.

Can I Travel Out of State While My DUI Case Is Pending?

• If you are arrested for DUI with property damage, the court may impose travel restrictions. You may need permission from the court or your attorney before leaving Florida. If your license is suspended, driving in another state could also result in additional penalties..

Protect Your Rights After a DUI Arrest! Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you. Contact us now at (727) 592-5885 to discuss your case.