Curious about how a DUI charge may affect you? Here are 5 facts you need to know about your DUI charge.
Did you know that about 1 in 3 people will be involved in some sort of drunk driving crash in their lifetime? In fact, 28 people die every day as a result of drunk driving crashes.
When you take a look at all fatal car accidents, alcohol is involved in 40% of them. Driving under the influence should be avoided at all costs as it can lead to serious injury and even death for yourself and others.
Even if there are no fatalities or injuries involved in an accident, being charged with driving under the influence can still have a significant impact on your life. There are a few things you should be aware of when you’ve been charged with a DUI.
Keep reading to learn 5 facts that you should know about a DUI charge.
1. Your Life up to This Point Has Influence
Depending on how serious your charge is, things of your past may be used against you. That being said, do not post ANYTHING either relating to or about your experience.
And if your social media accounts aren’t private, switch them all over to private for the duration of your case. Chances are there are photos and statements that you’ve shared that will be used by the prosecutor to build a stronger case against you.
2. You May Go to Jail
What happens if you get a DUI? Chances are, you’ll be taken to jail, temporarily. Even if you’re intoxicated, the best thing you can do for your future case is to comply with and show respect to the officer who has pulled you over.
Any additional misbehavior or attitude can result in more charges. You won’t be in jail for long. If it’s your first offense, it might take a little longer because you’ll have to be put into the system. Taking you in is just to get a mug shot, your fingerprints, and a blood test if need be. Be sure to get help and more info to ensure this doesn’t happen.
3. You Might Lose Your License
Depending on how serious your charge is and if it’s your first offense, you could at least face a suspended license as a result of your DUI charge.
You can always later apply for a hardship license or an occupational license so that you can drive from work to school. You’re more likely to be approved if it’s your first offense. Be sure to check out useful reference to make sure that doesn’t happen.
4. Your DUI Charge Could Cost You a Pretty Penny
The national average for being charged with a DUI is a $10,000 cost. This depends on the nature of the charge and what state you’re in. But regardless, you will be facing costs which can have a big effect on your life.
You’ll have fines, penalties, and driving alcohol school as your main costs. In addition to that, your insurance rate will go up. And if your DUI is serious enough that you are required to install an interlock device in your car, that could cost you an additional $200 per month.
5. You Shouldn’t Panic
Even though your brain might be rambling with all the many ways in which your life has taken a turn for the worse, don’t panic. Just because you’re charged with a DUI doesn’t mean you’ll face the worst.
The best thing you can do for yourself is to hire a DUI accident lawyer.
What Should You Do If You’re Facing a DUI Charge
If you’re facing a DUI charge, write down everything that happened from start to finish as soon as you get the chance. Show your lawyer and make a plan as to how you should proceed.
Make a promise to yourself never to drive under the influence again. Do what you need to do to move forward with your life and put your transgressions behind you!