{"id":782,"date":"2026-10-02T03:22:30","date_gmt":"2026-10-02T03:22:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/resources\/dui-defense-attorney\/dui-property-damage-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-10-27T14:57:52","modified_gmt":"2026-10-27T14:57:52","slug":"dui-property-damage-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/resources\/dui-defense-attorney\/dui-property-damage-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"DUI Property Damage in Florida: Charges & Defenses"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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DUI Defense | Miami & South Florida<\/p>

DUI with Property Damage in Florida: Charges & Defenses<\/h1>

A DUI arrest involving property damage carries serious penalties. Patrick Wilson Law defends drivers across Miami-Dade, Broward, and the Keys.<\/p>

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By Patrick David Wilson \u00b7 Published October 02, 2026<\/p>\n\n

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DUI with Property Damage in Florida: Charges & Defenses<\/h2>\n

A DUI charge becomes more serious when property damage occurs during the incident. In Florida, driving under the influence while causing damage<\/a> to another person’s property or your own vehicle is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying jail time, fines, license suspension, and restitution obligations. Understanding what prosecutors must prove, what penalties apply, and what defenses may be available can help you navigate this serious charge.<\/p>\n\n

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If you're facing DUI charges involving property damage\u2014whether as a first-time offender or someone whose career is at stake\u2014understanding your options now can make a real difference. Reach out to discuss your situation. Talk it through with our team — the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p>

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What Is DUI with Property Damage Under Florida Law?<\/h2>\n

DUI with property damage occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs and causes damage to someone else’s property or their own vehicle during that incident. Florida Statute 316.193(3)(c)(1)<\/a> governs this offense. The property damage element distinguishes this charge from a standard DUI and typically results in enhanced penalties.<\/p>\n

Property damage can include harm to another vehicle, a building, fence, mailbox, traffic sign, or other structure. The damage must be documented and directly connected to the impaired driving incident. Even minor property damage\u2014a dented bumper or scratched paint\u2014can trigger this enhanced charge if the prosecution can prove causation.<\/p>\n

How Much Property Damage Is a Felony in Florida?<\/h2>\n

A common misconception is that the dollar amount of property damage determines whether a DUI becomes a felony. That’s not how Florida law works. The dollar value of the damage is not the deciding factor. Instead, felony classification depends on two things: prior DUI convictions within 10 years<\/strong> and whether anyone was injured or killed<\/strong>.<\/p>\n