If you ask someone what the short-term consequences of being arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI) are, they’ll likely tell you that your license will be suspended, you may have to pay a fine and serve a night in jail. What they may not know though is what the long-term consequences of a DWI conviction on your record may be.
While the probability that someone charged with drunk driving will have their license temporarily suspended is high, a conviction for such an offense may result in a defendant’s license being revoked for a lifetime.
If you’ve previously been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or you seriously injured someone while operating your vehicle while intoxicated, then your driver’s license may be revoked for an extended period of time. If your job involves driving, then a DWI conviction may be grounds enough for your employer to let you go.
Since your driver’s license suspension affects your ability to drive, it may also impact your ability to reliably make it to work on a punctual basis.
If you are planning to look for another job, any employer that performs a background check will likely be able to see that you’ve been convicted of DWI. This may lead them to consider another employee over you for the position.
Landlords and school administrators may also check into your background. If they see a conviction on your record, then they may choose not to do business with you or to let you enroll in a program.
If you hold a public office or are a member of a professional organization, then media agencies may pick up on your case and publish details surrounding your arrest and case. This may affect your reputation among your peers.
Finally, once you’re convicted on DWI charges, auto insurance companies will view you as “high-risk”. This could result in your monthly premiums tripling. This increased rate can remain in effect for a number of years. They could even decide to no longer insure you.
The traffic stop and testing that led up to you being arrested on suspicion of drunk driving aren’t always admissible in court. That’s why you’ll want to have a Mahopac DWI attorney who knows what is lawful to advise you of your rights and represent you in your legal matter.
