What is the impact of a drunk driving record?

If you have been arrested and charged with drunk driving, you may wonder how your life will be affected if you are convicted. Unfortunately, it is likely that the conviction will have some impact. The degree or manner in which a person is affected tends to vary.  Below you will find some common possibilities.

Impact Of Drunk Driving Record

If you plan to drive again following a DUI conviction, you will usually be required to have special insurance coverage, such as an SR-22. You will have to maintain this for a specified period of time, and this type of coverage tends to be significantly more expensive than regular insurance. Even when you are allowed to return back to normal coverage, your rates are likely to be higher.

A DUI conviction often affects employment. Commercial drivers, for example, will lose their CDLs and as a result many lose their jobs. Individuals holding non-driving positions also commonly get fired or are forced to resign. Furthermore, conviction of this crime can prevent you from getting a job that you want.

People tend to have strong, often austere, attitudes toward drunk drivers. The social impact can be as great, if not greater, than the financial and criminal consequences. And, the social effects may be felt for a long time.

Get Help

The best way to prevent the negative impact of a drunk driving record is to avoid conviction. If you have a pending DUI case, you should consult a lawyer regarding possible defense strategies.