Driving under the influence of alcohol and the havoc it creates on the road are becoming an accepted fact of life for many, In Florida, one of the most affluent states in the country, driving under the influence (DUI) is notorious, and every step is being taken to take control of this out-of-control, life-threatening situation.

A DUI conviction is established when a motorist is stopped and suspected of drunk driving. A blood alcohol level is usually given either by breath, urine or blood sample. If the presence of alcohol is 0.08% or more, the offender will face DUI charges. Refusal to take the tests when asked may result in a prompt arrest of the suspected offender.

The law promises a host of penalties for the offender, starting from a fine of $250, which may go up to $500 or more if it is a conviction for the first time. In the case of second timers, the penal provision is even harsher, starting from $500, going anywhere up to $1000. Fines keep rising with every conviction, and there could be accompanying jail terms that also increase with every repetition. In most cases, the offender has to engage himself in community services for a mandatory 50-hour. Once convicted, Florida law also states that the person has 10 days to request a hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Security and Motor Vehicles to plea for the right to keep his driver