Golf legend Tiger Woods is taking time away to seek treatment after a rollover car crash in Florida last week. This comes after he pleaded not guilty Tuesday to DUI charges stemming from the incident near his Jupiter Island home.

Charges Following Friday’s Crash

Woods is charged with driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, both misdemeanors. According to the sheriff’s affidavit, the deputy believed Woods’ faculties were impaired at the crash site. A breath test administered at the Martin County Jail showed no alcohol present (0.000 on both samples).

However, Woods refused to take a urine test to check for the presence of chemical or controlled substances, as detailed in the affidavit. He was informed he could change his mind while at the jail, but never did.

Trenton’s Law and Implied Consent

What is Trenton’s Law?

The case is complicated by a new Florida law, Trenton’s Law, which took effect in October. This law increases penalties for refusing to submit to breath or urine tests during a DUI arrest, making it a first- or second-degree misdemeanor. Refusal also results in driver’s license suspension and a minimum of 30 days in jail.

Attorney Lawrence Meltzer, specializing in DUI cases, confirmed that Trenton’s Law “absolutely” applies to Woods’ situation.

Florida’s Implied Consent Law

Florida operates under Implied Consent Law, meaning drivers consent to breath, urine, or blood tests upon lawful arrest for suspected DUI. Refusing a urine test is a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, along with a one-year license suspension.

Impact of Refusal on the Case

Meltzer explained that Woods’ refusal to provide a urine sample could be detrimental to his defense. “The refusal is indicative of guilt,” he stated, adding that it can be used as evidence.

However, without evidence of a specific substance beyond alcohol, the prosecution may face challenges. Meltzer noted, “Can they go forward without having any evidence of what the substance is? Meaning, they have no alcohol, and then technically they have no drug.” A plea deal to the refusal charge, with lesser penalties, is also a possibility.

Woods’ Past Vehicle Incidents

This isn’t Woods’ first involvement in vehicle incidents. In 2009, he struck a fire hydrant and a tree near Orlando, citing his own fault and receiving a citation for careless driving.

In 2017, Woods pleaded guilty to reckless driving after being found unresponsive in his car. He attributed this to an “unexpected reaction to prescribed medications” and completed probation, including DUI school and community service.

The 2021 rollover crash in Los Angeles was ruled an accident, with no charges filed.

Will Woods Face Jail Time?

Meltzer believes jail time is unlikely, emphasizing Woods’ presumption of innocence. He stated Woods would be treated like any other defendant, and the prosecution would follow legal and ethical guidelines.

Woods’ next court hearing is scheduled for May 5.