A DUI in Clearwater that results in serious bodily injury of another person has harsh penalties. Pinellas County classifies this type of DUI as a third degree felony. As a result of this DUI, you could face up to 5 years in a Florida State Prison. Additionally, you could be made to pay a fine of up to $5,000.00 and your driver's license will be revoked for a minimum of 3 years after completion of any court ordered imprisonment. Depending on the number of prior DUI convictions you have received, your license could be revoked permanently and you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. If you are eligible to obtain a hardship license, you will have to complete DUI School through the Suncoast Safety Councilprior to reinstatement of your license.

Florida law has defined serious bodily injury for purposes of a DUI. Not all injuries sustained in a crash fall within this category of injuries and it is the responsibility of the State to prove that a serious bodily injury has been sustained. Further, the State must prove that you were impaired at the time of the crash. The law permits Police to forcibly obtain a blood sample from you to test your blood alcohol level or the presence of any chemical substance in order to prove impairment at the time of the crash. If you are facing this type of DUI conviction, call our office immediately at 727-222-3610 to discuss the facts of your case and get the help you need.