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Many people assume that because golf carts are smaller and slower than cars, Florida's DUI laws don't apply to these vehicles. However, it's essential to understand that you can be charged with DUI while operating a golf cart while under the influence.
Our experienced South Florida DUI defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Robert David Malove understand the serious Florida golf cart DUI penalties you face if convicted and are here to mount an aggressive defense strategy to fight your charges. Here, we discuss how Florida's DUI statute is enforced if you’re intoxicated when driving a golf cart.
Can You Be Charged With a Florida Golf Cart DUI?
Florida Statute §316.193(1) prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The law states that a person is guilty of DUI if they are driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher. Drivers can also be convicted of DUI if they drive while under the influence of alcohol or any chemical or controlled substance to the extent that their normal faculties are impaired, even if their BAC is less than .08%
Under this law, a "vehicle" is defined broadly in the Sunshine State. The definition includes many nontraditional vehicles used to transport people or goods,
While a golf cart may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a "vehicle," these devices do transport people and can be operated on certain public roads. Therefore, a golf cart can be considered a vehicle under Florida's DUI law, and you can face DUI charges for operating a golf cart while under the influence.
Can You Be Charged With Florida Golf Cart DUI If You’re Not Driving on a Public Road?
Florida's broad definition of "vehicle" means golf cart drivers can face DUI charges in more places than you might expect. Our DUI laws don’t just apply if you’re driving a golf cart on public roads. You can be arrested for DUI on a private street or a community path, especially if the area is accessible to the public or law enforcement.
Golf carts are staples of daily life in many Florida communities, from gated neighborhoods to retirement villages and beachfront resorts. These areas often have designated paths, lanes, or roadways just for golf cart traffic. You can be charged with DUI if you’re driving a golf cart while intoxicated while driving on them. Other examples of areas where DUI laws are enforced for golf cart drivers in Florida include:
- Public roads in golf cart communities and neighborhoods
- Beaches that have community paths
- Bike paths and multi-use trails that permit golf carts
- Municipal properties like parks and recreation areas
What Are the Penalties for a Golf Cart DUI?
Being charged with a Florida golf cart DUI is a serious matter with potentially severe consequences. If you are convicted, you face the same penalties as you would for DUI in a passenger car. For a first-time DUI offense, potential penalties include:
- A fine of $500 to $1,000
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Driver's license revocation for 180 days to one year
- 12 months of probation
- 50 hours of community service
- DUI school and substance abuse evaluation
Repeat offenses, DUIs involving an accident causing property damage or injuries, and DUIs with a high BAC can result in enhanced charges and more severe penalties. Having a DUI conviction on your record, even for an offense involving a golf cart, can cause many long-term consequences, such as increased insurance costs, points on your driving record, limited employment and educational opportunities, and damage to your reputation.
Defending Against Golf Cart DUI Charges in South Florida
If you have been charged with DUI on a golf cart, it's crucial to speak with our skilled South Florida DUI defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Robert David Malove right away. We understand the nuances of Florida's DUI laws and their application to golf cart cases.
Our attorneys can thoroughly scrutinize the evidence against you, challenge improper test results, raise violations of your constitutional rights, and explore all potential avenues to build a strong defense. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome given the facts of your case, whether that means fighting for a dismissal or negotiating for reduced charges.
