An arrest for impaired driving is something that requires a serious response on your part. One of the first things that you should do is retain legal counsel that can represent you as the fight against the impaired driving violation gets underway. Be mindful that if you are convicted, things will be different. Here are some examples of how things will change and why it’s important to do whatever is possible to get the charges dismissed.
Alternative Transportation Isn’t Always Fun or Convenient
If convicted, you will lose your driving privileges for at least a time. That means you’ll need to find other ways to get around. There are plenty of options to consider, such as getting rides from friends or using a ride share service. You may also decide to use public transport or call a taxi service.
While each of these forms of transport will get you there, they’re not the same as hopping in your own vehicle and going when the mood strikes. Every trip you make away from home will mean planning things in advance, allowing extra time to get where you want to go, and repeating the process when you want to get home. While doable, none of these methods offer the ease or the convenience that comes with being able to drive yourself.
Paying Higher Insurance Rates Isn’t Great Either
You’ll still need to maintain insurance on the car even while you can’t drive. Once a conviction is on your record, expect the rates to increase. You may even need to find another insurance provider if the current one decides to drop you or at least not renew the policy when the current term ends.
There are high-risk insurance providers who will work with you. Be aware that along with the higher rates, you’re likely to have fewer benefits included in the policy. It will be a long time before you can once again receive competitive pricing for auto insurance.
The Impact on Your Work Life is Greater Than You Think
Your present employer is unlikely to fire you after the conviction. However, you may no longer be eligible for certain types of promotions. The job you have now may be the only one you will have within the company for a long time.
Don’t think that finding a job elsewhere will mean your conviction is no longer a factor. Prospective employers are likely to conduct background checks and find out that you have a criminal record. That’s likely to close quite a few doors. At best, your job prospects will be limited. At worse, you’ll be unable to find work in your field.
And Your Credit Can Also be Adversely Affected
Your credit scores can also suffer as a result of the conviction. That will make financing a new vehicle or obtaining a mortgage more difficult. If either of those purchases are on your list of things to do in the next five years, they may need to be delayed for a time.
The bottom line is that a conviction for impaired driving will change your life. Work with your lawyer to have the DUI charges dropped and avoid these complications. If you are fortunate enough to get the charges dismissed, make sure you never put yourself in this position again.