A DUI costs more than just money. DUIs are one of the highest causes of homicide in the country, with a new fatality occurring nearly once every half hour or so. And yet, many drivers believe that they can somehow make it home while intoxicated without incident.
If you miraculously avoid causing an accident but still get pulled over, a first-time offender may get off with a bail amount of just a couple of hundred dollars. However, your DUI’s cost will not end there.
Suspended License
As many people are quick to forget, the court system deems driving as a privilege, and not a right. That means that if the state considers you unsafe to operate your vehicle, they will suspend your license.
Even if you were a first time DUI offender, they can and will suspend your license. While you are likely able to reapply for another after your sentencing gets completed, it won’t be a simple process.
Even if the judge decides to give you a second chance, you aren’t in the clear yet. You will probably need to pay an additional fee to restore your license’s status.
Loss of Income
Let’s be honest; the job market isn’t too keen on retaining or hiring felons. Once you stop showing up to work because you’re in jail, your boss likely is likely going to fire you.
Considering that you now don’t have a license, finding work is going to remain difficult. Even if you do manage to find another position, you won’t be able to drive there for a while.
Personal Relationships
Once a person becomes considered a convicted felon, they typically lose out on a lot of their relationships. Many people don’t want to be friends with a criminal, and you can bet that your significant other is going to get cold feet as well.
Receiving a DUI will likely cause you to lose out on a lot of your relationships with others. You may discover that even your family may feel uncomfortable associating with you, at least out in public.
Hiring Counsel
Everyone knows that if you can’t afford a lawyer, the court will appoint one to you. However, if the judge decides that you can hire a personal attorney based on your finances, that is another considerable expenditure to face.
Even cheap DUI tickets will wind up costing thousands. Don’t put yourself at risk and avoid drunk driving.
