As you likely know, a DUI has some long-term effects on your quality of life. From job security, to the cost, and potential jail time… If you weigh the pro’s and con’s of driving drunk, the con’s are pretty high. But, that may not be convincing enough for you. So, we’re going to lay it all out there for you. Following, you will find a list of long-term DWI effects, and the impact they can have on your day-to-day life. A DWI is not always an isolated incident and punishment…
Long-Term DWI Effects on Day-to-Day Life
You Could Lose Your Job
Depending on where you work and the demands of your position, a DWI could cost you your job. For instance, nearly any job that requires you to drive will not be able to keep you as an employee. That means any package delivery services, such as UPS or FedEX, or the U.S. mail. Furthermore, you will certainly lose driving jobs such as bus and truck driving positions. Especially if that job requires a CDL— upon a DWI, your CDL is revoked for a year.
It Could Affect Your Future Career Goals
Not only might it cost you your current job, it could harm your future prospects as well. Since a DWI conviction shows up on your criminal record indefinitely, many places may be hesitant to hire you. In addition, perks such as company cars may be completely out of the question. When it comes to long-term DWI effects, this might be one of the most damaging.
You Have To Pay Up
In North Carolina, a DWI can cost you thousands of dollars. From fines, to court cost, to attorney fees, and even impound of your vehicle… the numbers can start to add up. For first time offenders, you must pay a fine of $1,000 for your DWI. Then, there are those additional fees for community service and even an ignition interlock device, if required.
Not to mention, your insurance will go up– A LOT. In fact, this may be the most costly expense of all. A DWI can leave you ‘impaired’ in terms of functioning within the world for months; even years. In some cases, your insurance rates can increase by 400%…
You Could Face Jail Time
Most people believe if you are a first-time offender, you won’t get jail time. However, in North Carolina, you could face anywhere from 3 days to 6 months in jail, depending on the circumstances. While most people will likely have to perform community service instead, there is a possibility of jail time.
You Could Lose Scholarship
For students ready to head back to school, a DWI has to potential to influence your eligibility for scholarships, grants, internships… In many cases, scholarships and grants come with certain requirements both academically and personally. Often, any sort of legal trouble can jeopardize your standing, and consequently lead to you losing that benefit. Remember, a DWI does show up on your criminal record, therefore it carries heavy consequences.
The long-term DWI effects have an overarching negative effect on your career, schooling, financials, and quality of life. Therefore, taking that Uber or Lyft instead of getting behind the wheel… might just save your future. But, if you’ve decided to drive anyways and have received a conviction, it’s important to speak with a lawyer right away. A DWI can have long-lasting damages, but that is not always the case. So, speak with an attorney, explain the details of your case, and see where you go from here. You don’t have to go at this alone…
