After being arrested for a DUI you may be scared, angry, or confused.
You’re probably wondering how does a DUI affect you and if you’ll lose your job and how much it’ll cost to fix it.
Getting a DUI isn’t the end of the world, but it can take some time to recover from. And each state has its own laws pertaining to driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated.
Keep reading to learn what happens when you get a DUI.
Your License Will Likely Be Suspended
When you’re arrested for a DUI, the officer who arrests you will probably take your license.
If you refuse a sobriety test via blood, breath or urine, your license will automatically be suspended. It will also be automatically suspended if you don’t request a hearing.
When you’re released from jail, the clerk will hand you a temporary license. It expires on the date you’re required to appear in court. You might want to have an attorney for your appearance.
If you win in court, the judge may return your license. If you lose, your license will probably remain suspended for a specified period.
The judge makes the determination based on several factors including, how many DUIs you’ve had, and your blood alcohol level.
In some states, your car might be impounded or immobilized.
You May Have To Go To Rehab or Jail
Repeat DUI offenders may serve jail time when a judge believes it’s the only recourse that will deter them from getting behind the wheel.
If you were involved in an accident or injured or killed someone, jail time is likely.
A judge may require you to enter a rehab facility or program for a specified amount of time.
The will make a determination based on your history. Rehab is sometimes required to have your license reinstated.
Upon completing rehab the judge will determine if you’ve satisfied the requirements and proceed from there.
In other cases, a judge may order you to pay a fine in addition to rehab. The decision depends on multiple factors.
You’ll Need An SR22 Certificate
In most states, you’ll need SR-22 coverage. The court or the DMV mandates that people who’ve been convicted with driving under the influence obtain this certificate.
This is a certificate that guarantees you have the minimum liability insurance coverage the state requires.
In most cases, you’ll have to carry an SR22 certificate for three years,
You’ll Need FR44 Insurance in Florida and Virginia
If you live in Florida or Virginia, you’re required to carry FR44 insurance after a DUI. This insurance is double the legal liability coverage minimums.
You’ll have to carry this insurance for a three years after you’re convicted of a DUI.
It ensures that should you be involved in an auto accident while driving intoxicated, your insurance will cover the damages you cause.
Unlike regular insurance coverage, you can’t make monthly payments on FR44 insurance. You’ll have to pay for six months of insurance in advance each time you renew it.
You Might Lose Respect
One of the most eye-opening consequences of a DUI is a loss of respect from family and friends.
The stigma of a DUI arrest can last for years. Your parents might not trust you to drive with others in the car. And siblings might keep a closer eye during visits with nieces and nephews.
Friends may not invite you out with them. And if they do, they might check and re-check that you aren’t driving.
A DUI can also take a toll on your self-respect. This can be the hardest to recover.
What Happens When You Get a DUI?
Whathappens when you get a DUI is it can have negative effects on your mental health, not to mention your wallet and your record.
You may need to take some extra time for self-care while handling legal issues. Check out this post for tips to boost your mental health while clearing up a DUI.