Drinking and driving is a dangerous combination. Driving under the influence (DUI) can cause serious accidents, injuries, and others. What happens when you get a DUI is more than just criminal penalties.
Impacts of a DUI Conviction
1) Criminal Penalties
When you are convicted of DUI, there are a variety of penalties that can be handed down by the court. These penalties can include jail time, fines, community service, and more.
The fines will vary depending on your state and the severity of your offense, but they can be quite expensive. You may also be required to complete community service or attend alcohol education classes.
2) Civil Penalties
A conviction can change different aspects of your life. In addition to the criminal penalties, there are also a number of civil penalties that you may have to deal with.
These penalties may include the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. You may also face higher insurance rates and, in some cases, even see an increase in DUI arrests.
3) Lower Job Eligibility
Having a DUI on your record can affect your eligibility for certain jobs. Employers, especially those who hire heavy equipment operators, such as long-haul drivers and pilots, will often screen potential employees before offering them a position.
And if you already have a job, you could lose it if the company runs a background check on you or learns about your conviction from another party. This can also prevent you from obtaining a professional license since some industries will ask for your driver’s abstract.
4) Financial Repercussions
If you are convicted of drunk driving, it will be noted on your driving record for at least ten years after the incident. Even misdemeanors will stay on your record for a minimum of seven years.
This mishap may also increase the cost of your insurance. Your insurance company may consider you a high-risk driver and use this information to increase your rates accordingly.
5) Family Law Conflicts
A DUI could also affect other aspects of your life, including family law issues if you share custody of children. A conviction could reduce your time with your children or cause you to lose primary custody altogether.
If you are convicted of DUI, the court may determine that you are an unfit parent and award custody to the other parent or a third party. This could have a devastating impact on your children and your relationship with them.