Drunk driving charges are challenging to face, partially because of the serious consequences that come with a conviction. While some people think about things like fines and incarceration, there are other collateral consequences that must be considered.
A drunk driving conviction may mean that you lose your driver’s license. This means that you will be unable to drive to work, school, doctor’s appointments or other errands. If you have children, even getting them to school or extracurricular activities may be challenging.
Effects on driving
Besides losing your driver’s license, there are other ways that the conviction may impact your ability to drive. Once you’re allowed to drive again, getting insurance may be incredibly costly because you may need an SR-22 insurance form.
Another way that a conviction can affect your ability to drive is that you may be required to use an ignition interlock device. This requires you to provide a breath sample in order for the vehicle to start and periodically while you’re driving.
Long-term effects of this conviction
Being unable to drive can mean that you have trouble getting to work, especially if you live in an area without suitable public transportation. You could lose your job because you can’t make it there reliably, which would lead to your income stopping. Additionally, there’s a chance that the lack of income could lead to you being unable to pay your fines.
The cascade of consequences when you’re convicted of drunk driving can be significant. It’s beneficial to work with someone familiar with your case and the court hearing it so they can help you set a defense strategy that you’re comfortable with.