Broward County Announces DUI Checkpoints on February 11, 2023

DUI Checkpoints Set Up Across Broward County

Law enforcement agencies across Broward County, Florida have announced plans to set up DUI checkpoints on Saturday, February 11th, 2023. These checkpoints are aimed at catching and arresting drunk drivers in order to improve public safety on the county's roads and highways.

What Are DUI Checkpoints?

DUI stands for "driving under the influence." DUI checkpoints involve police officers stopping vehicles at specific, predetermined locations to check whether drivers are over the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.08%.

Officers will briefly question each driver, request their license and registration, and potentially ask them to perform sobriety tests like standing on one leg or following a pen with their eyes. If officers suspect the driver has a BAC over 0.08, they will make an arrest for DUI.

Goals of DUI Checkpoints

DUI checkpoints aim to:

• Catch and arrest drunk drivers
• Deter potential drunk drivers by increasing the perceived risk of being caught
• Collect data to identify high-risk areas, times, days for drunk driving
• Raise public awareness about the dangers of drunk driving

By publicizing these checkpoints, law enforcement hopes fewer people will risk driving over the limit, helping improve public safety.

The Legality of DUI Checkpoints

Some people question whether DUI checkpoints violate citizens' constitutional rights under the 4th Amendment against unreasonable search and seizure. However, numerous court cases have upheld the legality of DUI checkpoints when conducted properly.

For a DUI checkpoint to be constitutional, it must:

• Be well-publicized in advance
• Have a predetermined location, date, and duration
• Stop all vehicles or use a neutral formula to select vehicles (e.g. every 3rd car)
• Limit the detention time for each driver (usually under 1 minute)

As long as these conditions are met, the checkpoints are considered reasonable methods for improving public safety.

What to Expect at a DUI Checkpoint

If you come across a DUI checkpoint, you can expect:

• Flashing lights, police vehicles, traffic cones, and signage indicating a DUI checkpoint
• An officer requesting your license, registration and proof of insurance
• Brief questioning about alcohol consumption or medications taken
• Potentially being asked to complete field sobriety tests

The officer will assess your condition while speaking with you and determining if additional investigation is necessary. If the officer doesn't see signs of impairment, you'll quickly be allowed to go on your way.

Penalties for DUI in Florida

Florida has strict penalties for driving under the influence, including:

• 1st Offense - Up to $500 fine, up to 6 months license suspension, up to 9 months probation, 50 hours community service, 10 day vehicle impoundment
• 2nd Offense - Up to $1000 fine, up to 1 year license suspension, up to 1 year prison
• 3rd Offense - Up to $2500 fine, up to 10 years license suspension, minimum 30 days prison up to 5 years

Penalties get harsher for repeat offenders. A 4th DUI conviction in Florida can be charged as a felony with up to 5 years in state prison.

Besides criminal penalties, those convicted of DUI also face significantly higher Florida car insurance rates for 3 years post-conviction.

Alternative Ride Services

To avoid putting yourself and others at risk, make sure you plan ahead if drinking by designating a sober driver, using a rideshare service, or taking public transportation. Broward County offers many alternative transportation options including:

• Lyft
• Uber
• Yellow Cab Broward
• Broward County Transit

Don't risk a DUI. If you've had more than 1-2 drinks, find an alternative safe ride home.

What to Do If You're Stopped at a DUI Checkpoint

If you come across a DUI checkpoint after drinking, remain calm and remember these guidelines:

• Pull over safely and turn off your engine when instructed
• Provide your license, registration and proof of insurance when asked
• Be cooperative and respectful in answering officer's questions
• Remember officers are recording interactions and looking for signs of impairment
• If asked, politely decline to complete any field sobriety tests
• These tests are voluntary and designed for you to fail
• If arrested, request an attorney immediately and remain silent

By knowing your rights and following these tips, you can minimize any trouble during a DUI checkpoint stop.

FAQs

Are DUI checkpoints legal in Florida?

Yes, DUI checkpoints are legal in Florida if officers follow guidelines like publishing the location and time in advance, stopping vehicles systematically, and limiting detention time. As long as these conditions are met, the checkpoints do not violate the 4th Amendment.

What should I do if stopped at a DUI checkpoint?

If stopped, remain calm and be cooperative with officers. Provide your license, registration and insurance when requested. Politely decline any field sobriety tests. If arrested, politely invoke your right to an attorney and remain silent.

What happens if you refuse a breathalyzer test in Florida?

Refusing a breathalyzer test after being arrested for DUI in Florida leads to an automatic one-year driver's license suspension in addition to other DUI penalties if convicted. There are limited grounds to contest the administrative license suspension.

What are the fines for DUI in Florida?

Florida DUI fines start at up to $500 for a first offense and increase up to $2,500 for a third DUI conviction. Additional DUI penalties can include license suspension, probation, community service, vehicle impoundment and even prison time.