4 Long-Lasting Consequences of a DUI Conviction

One of the most common criminal offenses that drivers are charged with is driving under the influence. Even individuals with a clean record can suddenly see their lives take a stressful turn after a DUI arrest. Being convicted of driving under the influence in Florida can have long-lasting ramifications – some of which can linger for years to come. Below, we go into greater detail about some of the long-term consequences that DUI offenders may face to help you understand the importance of hiring DUI attorneys in Daytona Beach for your defense.

Background Checks

Some employers conduct criminal background checks for offenses such as driving under the influence before hiring job applicants for work. DUI convictions will show up permanently on a background check, which could stop an individual’s efforts to be hired by certain companies. Furthermore, other organizations also rely on background checks before making important decisions, such as financial institutions, college admissions, and housing applications. Because of this, a DUI conviction may even hamper an individual’s chances of finding a place to live.

License Revocation

DUI convictions can carry a penalty of license revocation for a period of up to two years for an individual’s first conviction. Repeat offenses carry harsher and longer penalties, as well. Not having a driver’s license can impede the level of convenience that the offender is used to. Without a driver’s license, individuals cannot run simple errands, visit with family and friends, or participate in some of their usual social activities that require them to drive. Additionally, individuals who choose to drive despite having a suspended license will incur serious penalties if they are arrested, including their car being impounded for 30 days and new charges in court.

Ignition Interlock

After being convicted of driving under the influence, individuals will have to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on any vehicle they wish to drive after their license is reinstated. In order to get that far, individuals must finish the mandatory suspension period and all other licensing requirements, which commonly include several hours of appropriate DUI classes. From that point forward, the designated vehicle will not start unless the driver is able to blow into a breathalyzer with a blood alcohol concentration below 0.02. It is important to keep in mind that offenders will be responsible for paying for all installation and maintenance costs associated with the IID.

Car Insurance Rates

Auto insurance rates often skyrocket after a DUI conviction. This is because insurance companies are putting themselves at risk by offering protection to drivers with a criminal history of illegal driving. In fact, in many cases, only high-risk insurance companies that charge double the normal rates will take a risk on insuring a convicted impaired driver. It is possible for insurance rates to double, triple, or be terminated altogether, so convicted drivers should expect harsh penalties to reflect in their rates.

In addition to these long-term consequences, driving under the influence in Florida will also carry consequences including costly fines, restricted traveling rights, and even loss of employment in some cases. It is very important to pursue legal help immediately after a DUI arrest in order to limit the negative impact of these charges. Genine Mejia, your trusted Volusia County criminal defense attorney, will review the circumstances surrounding your arrest to get your driver’s license back as soon as possible, while minimizing other related consequences.