Drunk Driving Can Lead to Devastating Financial Trouble Posted at 3/28/2012 01:06:00 AM 1 comments (+)
There are many effects when you’re charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). Every state has a legal limit of .08 for your blood alcohol level. In most cases when you’re caught driving under the influence, it’s a misdemeanor since it’s your first offense. Not every state does this and it will vary, depending on where you live. What many people don’t know, is that drunk driving can lead to devastating financial trouble. Financial trouble that’s not worth getting into.

The Cost of Getting a DUI

Many don’t realize what it will cost when you are charged with a DUI. In most cases you’ll be ordered to take courses on alcohol education and you may end up losing your license. These are just the minor fees and it doesn't include your lawyer and court fees. This is money that you will have to pay almost immediately if the court doesn't offer a payment plan.

The Effects of DUI on Employment

The biggest cost in getting a DUI is the chance that you could lose your current job. Other issues you can face include having to take your alcohol education classes and the loss of your car that will have an effect on your current job status. Showing up late because you don't have reliable transportation or having to leave early to attend alcohol education classes could upset your employer since it's interfering with your job.

If you’re currently looking for employment and a background check is done, your DUI will come up and many employers will turn away job prospects with DUI charges or convictions. When you fill out a job application, most – if not all – companies will ask if you have any prior convictions. If you leave it blank and a background check is done, the DUI will show up and you could lose out on the position for not disclosing the information on your application. Some employers will go as far back as 10 years to see your background and driving records, but most will go three to five years back.

Suspended License

Once your license has been suspended you may notice some effects that follow shortly after. Many insurance companies will drop people who have a DUI, making it much harder for you to get insurance once you get your license and vehicle back. Not being able to drive and rely on public transportation or other people may result in losing your current job or will limit the places you’re able to work at, making it harder for you to pay your bills.

The cost of getting a DUI could become drastic and not worth the complications. Having a DUI could hurt your chances of landing a job or could result in being terminated from your recent employer.