Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is of course illegal in the United States. However, it is the most common criminal offense. That means that many people who have never been involved with the law before can find themselves worrying about what a DUI will mean for their future.
A DUI conviction should be taken seriously
Being charged with a DUI, although it is common, should never be taken lightly. In means that you have engaged in an activity that is potentially very dangerous, both for yourself and for other people on the road.
The short-term consequences of a DUI conviction
The short-term consequences that you face can depend on how much alcohol was in your system and the state that you were driving in. It will almost always result in the suspension of your driver’s license, and you will likely have to pay fines.
You may also need to attend a defensive driving course before you can get your license back. You may even have to face time in jail as a consequence of your actions.
The long-term consequences of a DUI conviction
Dealing with court dates and potential community service or jail could affect your ability to carry out your job or attend to your family. It is easy to see how a DUI conviction could result in you becoming unemployed and turning your life upside down.
If you have been charged with a DUI offense and are concerned about the consequences of driving under the influence, you should take your time to carry out research and understand your rights.
Source: Bactrack, “Long-term DUI Consequences,” accessed Nov. 30, 2017