The risks of getting a DUI go beyond car accidents and potential injuries. Having it on your record affects your home and work life in several ways. Because it impacts more than just the driver, it’s important to know what can happen when you incur this charge and these are just some of the consequences:
Current Work
DUI charges are often enough to convince an employer to fire someone, but that isn’t the only concern. According to Steve W. Sumner, Attorney At Law, “You have 30 days from the time of your arrest to avoid an automatic suspension.” If that happens, then it could be more difficult to get to work at all and that will make your boss see you as not being reliable. You might also have to spend time in a treatment program or jail, which means that you won’t even be able to make it at all.
Personal Finances
The costs go beyond the impound fees and fines of arrest. Insurance premiums can skyrocket and your credit will likewise be negatively impacted. Rehabilitation is not cheap and if a DUI already reflects poorly on your job, mandatory enrollment could be a major issue. If an accident results in injury or death, then the prices get far worse. Good lawyers can offset a lot of these costs and speed up the recovery process, but even that depends on the case and how much help you need.
Future Work
Getting a DUI means getting a criminal record, which must be reflected on all job applications. Many already know this complication, but if you’re seeking work that requires certification, you might be out of a job for a while. Professions like teachers, police officers, doctors, and more can suspend licenses before a trial, before treatment, or permanently. By doing so, that is basically them saying that they don’t trust you to perform your duties as you are supposed to do so. Also, you should know that although DUI arrests are only reported for seven years, your potential employer is free to act on any convictions they find.
Family Ties
Besides the potential physical and financial tolls, major emotional effects can wreak havoc on your personal life. Embarrassment and guilt, not to mention mistrust and anxiety over safety, can ruin your relationship with loved ones such as your spouse and children. Time spent in treatment or jail may only drive you further away. Anyone involved incurring depression or PTSD can make recovery even more painful.
DUI arrests and charges alike bring no good to anyone. The effects can have the power to ruin someone’s life, short- and long-term. No matter whether your relationship is coming from your personal or work like, these charges can change your relationships—which is definitely one good reason to avoid drinking and driving.