Golf legend Tiger Woods faces serious legal consequences after a rollover crash in Jupiter Island, Florida left him arrested on DUI charges despite registering zero alcohol on a breathalyzer test. The 50-year-old was released from Martin County Jail late March 27 after posting bail, but authorities say he appeared impaired and refused a urine test that could have revealed what substances affected him.
The Crash and Arrest Details
Deputies responded to Jupiter Island after 2 p.m. on March 27 when Woods’ vehicle rolled over. Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek reported that Woods crawled out through the passenger window of the overturned car. While his breathalyzer registered 0.00, indicating no alcohol consumption, a Drug Recognition Expert at the scene determined Woods showed signs of impairment from medication or drugs. No substances were found at the crash site, according to authorities.
Woods refused to submit to a urine test, triggering additional criminal charges under Florida’s “Trenton’s Law.” The legislation makes refusing a urine test during a DUI arrest a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Combined with charges for DUI and property damage, Woods could face up to six months imprisonment and $1,000 in fines for a first-time DUI conviction alone.
History of Vehicle Incidents
This marks another troubling chapter in Woods’ complicated relationship with motor vehicles. The golf star survived a serious rollover crash in California in February 2021 that required extensive recovery. His use of sleep medication Ambien came under scrutiny in three previous vehicle incidents, though authorities did not conduct blood tests following the 2021 crash despite expert opinions suggesting possible impairment.
Impact on Golf Career
The arrest comes at a critical time for Woods, who recently suggested he might compete at The Masters while recovering from Achilles injury and back surgery. Just three days before the crash, on March 24, Woods participated in the TGL Finals at the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, taking nine shots during the competition. President Trump, a close friend of Woods, sent well wishes but declined to discuss details of the incident. Woods’ agent Mark Steinberg has not responded to requests for information about the golfer’s condition or future plans.