A DUI is a serious offense that can send you to jail or cause you to lose your driver’s license and job. Understanding the implications of a DUI can help you prevent it completely or prepare you for any potential charges. This guide will cover information on both.
Driving under the influence
In simple terms, a DUI is driving under the influence. The influence here could be drugs or alcohol. Some states in the United States may refer to this as DWI, which stands for driving while impaired. While both persons with a DUI on a DWI charge will need a Greeley DUI lawyer, the difference between both is the level of intoxication.
In this case, DUI is considered a higher charge than DWI because the DWI applies to drivers who are not as intoxicated as most. To be charged with a DUI, you need to have an alcohol level of .08 percent. If the person’s alcohol level is significantly lower, such as 0.2 to 0.8, they might face a DWI charge instead.
How a DUI affects you
A DUI can affect you in so many ways. For one, you could face heavy fines or lose your license and registration. In more severe cases, you may get jail time. The penalty for a DUI often depends on the state laws. Other factors, such as the accident it caused or the age of the passengers, can also affect your punishment.
But that’s not all; you can also have extra penalties when you cause property damage or serious injury to passengers. For instance, you may be required to make payments to an injured person or face jail time for killing a person while driving under the influence.
Besides penalties from the law, you may also get some personal penalties that affect you in different ways. One is an increase in your insurance premium after any DUI charge. A DUI tells an insurance company that you are high risk and they may need to increase your premium to cover any damages you incur in the future.
You may also lose your job if you’re required to drive on the job. Employers may not want to take the risk of insuring you.
What to do
If you’re hit with a DUI charge, then you need to get a DUI attorney. Getting a lawyer who is versed in this field is very important. Such a lawyer understands the legal complexities, and they can help you navigate the process. The lawyer will also help you develop your defense and reduce the penalties, if any.
While the matter is still in court, avoid catching another charge. This can complicate things for your lawyer and make it more difficult to reduce your punishment. Ensure that you attend all court hearings and are on your best behavior. While the process may take several months to complete, with the help of a skilled lawyer, you could emerge with minimal consequences.
