Whether you get convicted for driving under the influence (DUI) or not, drunk driving poses a threat to your safety as well as other road users. Most states have stringent rules against driving under the influence of alcohol to make it less appealing. The consequences of a DUI charge are costly, time-consuming, and could attract jail time. DUI is a criminal charge, and it could stay on your record for up to six years, which might cause complications when you’re applying for some jobs. Also, car insurance companies tend to charge higher premiums if a DUI offense shows up in their records. Seek treatment for alcohol abuse from an alcohol addiction treatment center in Houston by calling 866.516.8356 to avoid tragedy before it happens.
What Counts As a DUI?
Many people have the notion that you have to be out of control due to alcohol abuse to earn a conviction of driving under the influence. This assumption is highly inaccurate. A police officer may notice behaviors indicative of intoxication, such as inconsistencies in your driving or the smell of alcohol when you speak. In such cases, they have the jurisdiction to carry out field sobriety tests to determine whether you’re intoxicated. The officer may use a Breathalyzer test to check your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). For most states, you’re likely to get arrested for DUI if it’s higher than 0.08.
What Are the Legal Consequences of Drunk driving?
The legal consequences of drunk driving vary from state to state. However, in most states, the first DUI offense is charged as a misdemeanor that goes on a criminal record. However, some situations could escalate your DUI charge to a felony, like if you severely injure or kill a person while drunk driving. You can expect the following consequences if you are charged with drunk driving:
Driving Restrictions
In most states, if you get convicted of DUI, you can be sure to expect restrictions on your driving privilege. In some states, you will even get restrictions for refusing to take a test for your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). First time DUI offenders usually face driving restrictions of up to three months. For repeat offenders, the length of time can be up to 12 months.
You Risk Probation
You might be placed on probation for drunk driving. This will not only cost you significant amounts of money, but you will also not be allowed to be in places whose primary business is serving alcohol, let alone use it. Probation also limits your freedom of movement because you must seek permission to leave the state, or city in some cases, from your probation officer.
Expensive Fines
Courts in Houston, Texas, typically fine you for DUI charges. DUI fines can be anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousands of dollars, often eating up your bond money.
Formal Alcohol Evaluation
Courts might require that you see a mental health provider for alcohol or substance use disorder evaluation. The courts will then use your evaluation results to determine sentencing, probation, or whether you need treatment. Besides how stressful this can be for you and your family, these evaluations can be costly.
You Could Go to Jail
In most states, courts issue a few days of jail sentences to individuals who have convictions for more than one DUI. However, the jail sentence for people who destroyed property or killed someone when drunk driving is significantly longer.
Learn How You Can Avoid Drunk Driving at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
Treating alcohol use disorders is the best way to avoid drunk driving and DUI convictions altogether. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we have a team of capable addiction professionals. Our staff will help you recover and get back to living a sober life in no time. Some of our services include:
- Residential treatment center
- Drug detox center
- Behavioral therapy program
- Individual therapy program
Contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston at 866.516.8356 to learn the dangers of drunk driving and get an individualized alcohol treatment program for you or your loved one.
