What Are the Consequences of a DUI?
DUI stands for driving under the influence. You can be charged with a DUI if caught behind the wheel while intoxicated.
The main consequence of a DUI is getting your driving license suspended. Most DUIs also come with an increased fine and possible prison time. Depending on your state’s laws, you could even have a DUI on your criminal record.
Want to know more about the consequences of a DUI? Read on.
Suspension of Driver’s License
DUI is a criminal offense taken very seriously by law enforcement and the judicial system. One of the consequences of a DUI conviction is the suspension of a driver’s license.
A suspended license can last anywhere from several days to several months. Depending on the offense’s severity, prior offenses, and the laws of the state the offense occurred in. During the suspension period, the offender cannot operate motor vehicles such as cars, trucks, or motorcycles.
A suspended license also means that the driver may not be able to:
- Obtain car insurance
- Obtain an occupational license
- Become eligible for reinstatement
The consequences of a DUI are severe and can have lasting effects. Laws must be followed to ensure the safety of everyone on the roads.
Increased Insurance Costs
A DUI conviction can lead to an increase in insurance costs that can last for years. Drivers convicted of drinking and driving may be deemed high risk and charged much higher rates than someone with a clean driving record.
Any not-at-fault accidents or tickets after a DUI conviction may cause the insurance company. It is to require an even higher premium than what is already standard. This could result in paying thousands of dollars in insurance per year.
Furthermore, if the convicted driver cannot find an insurance provider willing to cover them, they may be forced to join a high-risk pool with even higher premium rates. In some cases, a DUI conviction can make the driver uninsurable.
Loss of Employment
The consequences of a DUI, particularly related to loss of employment, are pretty severe. A DUI can severely damage an individual’s ability to keep and find a job. For any competition-based job, a DUI record can be a deciding factor in whether or not an individual is chosen for a particular role.
Furthermore, in the case of a DUI charge, employers may be less likely to take a chance on an individual because of the risks associated with hiring someone with a criminal record. A DUI charge limit’s an individual’s ability to obtain professional licenses and certifications.
Making it more difficult for them to obtain surety bonds and other financial products. Additionally, individuals owning businesses may face additional difficulties as a DUI offense may make it very difficult to obtain contracts from clients and customers.
All this may result in an individual feeling marginalized and struggling to obtain gainful employment.
Criminal Record and Imprisonment
A DUI, a criminal record, and imprisonment are immediate and far-reaching consequences. When a person is convicted of a DUI offense, they are subject to criminal penalties.
Depending on the nature of the offense, a person may be subject to fines. Additionally, many states automatically suspend a person’s driver’s license for some time.
A DUI conviction will remain on a person’s record for years. It can result in the loss of employment opportunities and professional licenses. Furthermore, the stigma attached to a DUI conviction may affect relationships with family and friends.
Because DUI cases involve a criminal record and the potential to be incarcerated, people charged with this offense are strongly advised to consult an experienced attorney. It ensures the correct legal strategy is taken to minimize the consequences.
Long-Term Financial Hardships
The consequences of a DUI can have long-term financial hardships, ranging from fines and court fees to increased insurance rates and potentially lost wages from jail time. Fines are often in the thousands and can cripple a person’s finances. Court fees add to the fines and can be far-reaching.
Insurance companies often require drivers to pay costly surcharges that can last up to three years and increase monthly insurance premiums.
If a person’s driver’s license is revoked, they may be unable to work, resulting in lost wages. They may also be unable to pay any associated legal costs if they cannot get to pre-trial meetings and the courthouse. The accumulation of these costs due to a DUI could cause long-term financial hardship and ruin someone’s life.
Additionally, the offender must pay for all the alcohol testing and may need to pay for classes or counseling. Finally, additional vehicle-related costs will likely be. These costs can take years to pay off and cause severe financial hardship for the offender.
And if the offender must serve jail time, there can be more costs in the form of lost wages. A DUI can quickly spiral into a financial crisis, making it difficult for the offender to get back on their feet and get their life back on track. If you consider a DUI record, plan in getting a DUI expunged.
Understanding the Consequences of a DUI
The consequences of a DUI can be dire and long-lasting. If you have been charged with a DUI, speak to an experienced criminal defense lawyer to learn more about your rights and how they can help you through this difficult time. Make the right choice, and do not let drunk driving ruin your future.
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