Rippling Effect of DUI Conviction
Being convicted for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol in Florida can have a profound impact on a person’s life. In a matter of minutes, everything as they know it can change when they are found guilty in a court of law. Even is someone has a capable Florida DUI attorney, they can still face conviction and receive penalties stemming from the conviction. These are just a few of the ways that a DUI conviction can have rippling effects on someone’s daily life.
Expenses
A Florida DUI conviction is expensive on many levels. Depending on the penalties imposed, they will likely have to pay a fine and court costs. The Florida DUI lawyer representing them will also have to be paid. If there was an accident related to the case, vehicle repairs and medical bills may be additional costs to consider.
Incarceration
One of the possible punishments for a DUI is time in jail or prison, depending upon the circumstances of the conviction. Not only does this cause embarrassment to the defendant and their family, it also requires spending time in a correctional facility. Loss of freedom, loss of employment and estrangement from friends and loved ones can be a direct result of jail or prison time.
Employment
People who are required to have a commercial driver’s license for their jobs can find themselves in a difficult situation when their driver’s license is suspended as a result of a DUI conviction. In some cases, they are unable to perform their job duties and are no longer eligible to work. A benevolent employer may find another position that person can fill until their suspension is over, but it may not pay as well. In other cases, someone with a suspended driver’s license that is applying for a new job is usually required to admit any loss of the privilege to drive. If it is still in effect, they may not be hired for the position because they cannot drive a company vehicle.
Insurance
One effect of a DUI conviction is the impact on a person’s auto insurance policy. Most policies require drivers to report any driving-related incidents and convictions. When this is done, a number of things can happen. One scenario is where they may be dropped from the policy altogether or it may not be renewed. It is likely they can find another company to cover them when they are eligible to drive, but rates will be significantly higher than those for low-risk drivers. Another possibility is the policy with their present insurance company is not cancelled, but the driver is deemed a high risk and the insurance rates are raised substantially. If the defendant does not report the infraction to their insurance company if required, their policy can be cancelled for non-compliance.
