Driving under the influence (DUI) or impaired driving is the most common criminal offense today. DUI convictions have consequences, and some can stay for years.
You may be aware of the short-term ramifications, including temporary suspension of your driver’s license, fines, and fees, court-mandated community service, high insurance premium fees, joining a drunken driving program, or even jail time.
On the other hand, long-term consequences from a DUI can have significant effects. Even after you have paid your fines and have fulfilled your legal obligations, your impaired driving conviction can still affect your future opportunities and haunt your life for years. So here are some long-term consequences of a DUI you should know before you take that drink and drive.
Driver’s license revocation
If you are arrested for a DUI and convicted, it can result in your driver’s license being revoked and can even last a few years after your first conviction before the license is reinstated. Once your driver’s license is revoked, you may have difficulties getting to work. In addition, losing the freedom to drive your car can be stressful.
Without your license running simple errands, participating in normal social activities, or enjoying family visits can be challenging, especially now with the need for social distancing public transport may not be ideal, and using taxis/Uber every day may leave a dent in your pocket.
Employment
Your job may also be affected if arrested and convicted for DUI. Court dates, community service, or jail time can wreak havoc on your work schedule and put your job at risk.
If you are looking for employment, a DUI conviction may also be a disadvantage if you have a DUI charge on your records. Most employers will run criminal background checks before they hire people. The conviction may not have anything to do with the job you are applying for, but most employers are uncomfortable hiring applicants with DUI convictions.
Jobs that require you to drive the company vehicle, such as delivery services, sales jobs, cab driving, or truck driving, may be closed to you.
Background checks
As we have seen earlier, most employers will run background checks for job applicants, and a DUI conviction may disqualify you. Background checks may also be triggered by financial processes, college applications, and housing applications.
That conviction may jeopardize your chances of securing a place in a college or a scholarship, acquiring a loan, or even renting out the home you want.
Auto insurance rates
Following a DUI arrest and conviction, your vehicle insurance rates are likely to increase because drivers who have been convicted of impaired driving are perceived as high risk.
Your insurance rates may double or even triple for at least several years. Some insurance companies may even terminate your cover.
A DUI conviction can have severe repercussions on your life for several years after. However, you can avoid this by staying in touch with your alcohol levels and avoiding driving after a night out. Immediately, if you are arrested for DUI, contact a criminal lawyer who may be able to help you.
–
Alby says
They’re serious about this crime. They’ll sauce themselves up and act like party hounds to reel in DUI’s like fish the same way they sex themselves up to reel in those in heat and with cash on a saturday night. Business is booming for them into early retirement and it’s safer and pays better than dealing with gang violence or illegal immigrants or… you know, the real scary stuff that is deteriorating America through our borders and inner cities. Need I type up a list? Their pay is good so that they can afford to unwind with a drink or two at their local bar, use their badge to chase tail easier instead of just be themselves, then drive home to sleep without “long-term consequences” and repeat their day with the look of bravery and honor and moral superiority amongst the supposed weak and naïve and silent. Go get em tiger. Go get em.