After a DUI arrest in Florida, a person will be asked to submit a sample of their breath for analysis. Also referred to as taking the breath test. Upon refusing to provide a sample, the arresting officer is supposed to read a warning that the license will be suspended. Sometimes, people change their mind and provide a sample immediately. What if the officer says it is too late to blow and announces the arrestee has refused?
Recanting Refusal, Changing your Mind When arrested for DUI
Blood Test or Blood Draw in DUI, DUI Serious Bodily Injury, DUI Manslaughter -
In Florida, when a person is suspected of DUI Manslaughter or DUI causing serious bodily injury the police can use reasonable force to obtain a blood sample to test. A blood test can only be obtained when there is probable cause to believe the driver is under the influence and caused a serious bodily injury or death. This includes serious bodily injury to the driver. Law enforcement DOES NOT have authority to force a blood test or blood draw in a plain DUI, DUI with property damage or DUI with bodily injury.
Reckless Driving and Vehicular Homicide - preseve evidence
Recently I took a Reckless Driving with Property Damage case to trial. Reckless Driving is a criminal traffic offense. Recklessness requires the State to prove a willful and wanton driving pattern likely to cause damage. Furthermore, Reckless Driving is needed to prove Vehicular Homicide, but not DUI Manslaughter. Careless driving is a civil citation, see the blog on the difference between reckless driving and careless driving for more.
