DUI Traffic Stops Defense Lawyer in Daytona Beach

A DUI arrest typically begins with a traffic stop. For many people, the appearance of those flashing lights in the rearview mirror is the start of a very stressful experience. At Whited Law Firm, we understand the fear and uncertainty that follow. Our office understands how to respond to that moment of crisis with a controlled, strategic legal response.

Daytona Beach and the surrounding areas in Volusia County, Brevard County, and throughout the Space Coast see frequent DUI enforcement. During major events like Bike Week and the Daytona 500, law enforcement increases patrols on roads like International Speedway Boulevard and U.S. Highway 1, where seemingly minor traffic issues can quickly lead to a DUI investigation. It’s important to have a legal defense that is experienced with Florida traffic stop laws. 

Founded in 1983 by Attorney Flem Whited, we have spent more than 40 years focused exclusively on DUI defense. We know how to challenge every step of a DUI arrest, starting with the legality of the traffic stop itself.

Call (386) 339-0702 today. You can also request a free consultation by filling out our online contact form.

Probable Cause in Florida Traffic Stops

Under Florida traffic stop laws, the police must have probable cause or reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle. That means an officer must observe something that indicates a possible violation of the law before initiating a traffic stop. Without this legal foundation, any evidence collected during the stop, including breathalyzer results and officer observations, may be challenged in court.

Common reasons law enforcement may claim to have probable cause include:

• Weaving in and out of lanes
• Braking repeatedly or erratically
• Driving significantly slower than the posted speed limit 
• Straddling two lanes of traffic
• Making a turn without signaling
• Operating a vehicle with equipment issues, such as a headlight out

While these behaviors can appear suspicious, they are not automatically evidence of impairment. A driver might swerve to avoid road debris, brake repeatedly in heavy traffic, or drive slowly due to poor weather conditions. At Whited Law Firm, we carefully review dashcam footage, officer reports, and witness statements to determine whether the stop was legally justified.

If the initial stop lacked probable cause, it may be possible to have any subsequent evidence obtained (like a DUI test) thrown out. Attorney Whited is highly skilled at identifying these opportunities. We know how local law enforcement handles stops, how traffic patterns around popular destinations influence enforcement, and how to fight aggressively for your rights under Florida traffic stop laws.