While the hope is that people drive safely and avoid putting themselves and others at risk by not driving under the influence, unfortunately, sometimes people make mistakes. Mistakes are understandable, but they still have consequences. Most people are aware of the common criminal consequences of being convicted of a DUI. Those can include fines, loss of driver’s license, time in jail, and probation. However, the consequences of DUI aren’t always just those assigned by the court. These consequences are less talked about but can make a person’s life more challenging.
A DUI conviction can carry several severe repercussions. Generally, people are aware of what penalties they may face, but there are other ways a DUI can impact your life that you have not even considered.
A DUI on your record flags you as a high-risk driver, which means you could be facing incredibly high insurance rates. In some cases, you may be unable to receive coverage at all.
Driving under the influence has severe consequences. Not just penalties. An accident caused by a driver under the influence can cause serious and even fatal injuries. People may lose friends and face a strain in their relationships because of their actions. Sometimes those who are close to them will understand that it was a lapse in judgment. However, if the accident resulted in someone else getting hurt, that can be difficult for loved ones to deal with and may place distance between them and the person arrested for a DUI.
For those who are getting ready to apply to college, it’s important to be aware that a DUI can impact your college acceptance. Colleges have admissions requirements and criteria that they consider when determining acceptance. Some schools may include the applicant’s criminal history into their consideration. Furthermore, you may be forced to change your area of study because the industry you previously tried to get into has stricter background check requirements. Being arrested for a DUI can close a lot of doors.
Many employers refuse or are unwilling to hire employees with criminal records. A DUI can be a serious hurdle to obtaining employment or furthering your career. Being convicted of a DUI may also affect your current position. You may lose your job if the conviction is discovered.
Under probation, it’s possible to request the ability to travel. However, it will be with restrictions. Some countries prohibit those with a DUI conviction from entering the country, even if it’s a first-time offense.
Whether you are in the midst of a divorce or in the finalized stages of a divorce, a DUI can play a significant role in the judge’s decision of whether you may share custody with your spouse. A DUI can be perceived as a problem with substance abuse and may be used to claim you are an unfit parent.
Anyone arrested and accused of a crime deserves access to an experienced, aggressive defense attorney who fights to protect their rights. A DUI conviction can negatively impact your life in more ways than one. At Hayes, PLLC, our defense lawyers prioritize safeguarding your futures, no matter what crime you have committed. We don’t pass judgment on you. We work to help resolve your case with the best possible outcome.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation at 978-314-4950 or by filling out our contact form.
