DUI Consequences
Due to pressure from the public and advocacy groups, lawmakers across the nation are passing tougher laws regarding drinking and driving. As a result, DUI consequences have become more life altering and severe.Even for a first offense, you may be subject to time spent in a jail cell, as well as expensive fines and the loss of your driving privileges.
Hiring a skilled DUI defense attorney is one of the best decisions you can make if you are arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Because DUI law is always changing, it is important to seek out an attorney who keeps abreast of the newest developments in DUI law and defense.
The consequences for DUI depend on many factors, with the number of DUI convictions on your record being the most important. For a first offense, you may face penalties such as probation, community service, fines, DUI School, and a driver’s license suspension. For multiple offenses, you may be subject to mandatory jail time and increased fines.
Certain factors may also “enhance” your consequences. For example, transporting a minor while intoxicated, causing an accident, driving a certain amount over the speed limit, or possessing an excessively high blood alcohol content may lead to increased penalties.
Intoxicated drivers under the age of 21 may face penalties for violating the Zero Tolerance laws in their state. The penalties for minors who are under the influence may include community service, fines, and loss of driving privileges.
There are other non-legal consequences of a DUI conviction. For example, your auto, health, and life insurance rates may go up once your insurance providers learn of the DUI offense on your record. This places you in the “high risk” category. In fact, some providers may even drop your coverage altogether.
Your employment may also be at stake with a DUI on your record. If you have a job that requires a clean traffic record, such as a commercial driver, you may be terminated if you are convicted of drunk driving. Many other employers require a clean background check, making it more difficult to gain future employment if you have a criminal record.
Don’t let DUI consequences affect your life – let an experienced defense lawyer review your case today.
