Drunk driving continues to be a controversial issue because it affects so many people. When someone makes the decision to drive after ingesting alcoholic beverages, there is an increased risk that this person will cause an accident. Furthermore, these types of crashes are often worse than other collisions because they can cause much more serious injuries, including broken bones, paralysis and even death.
Once law enforcement officers arrive at the scene of the accident, they give the driver a sobriety test. If he does not pass, the driver is arrested on a DUI charge. This arrest can affect people in several different areas of their lives. For example, if the accused drives a vehicle for a living, her job will be in jeopardy after her bosses learn that she has been arrested for driving under the influence.
In some instances, people lose their driver licenses and are forced to give up their vehicles. This makes it difficult for them to go to work, visit the grocery store and take their kids to school. Their spouses and friends may be forced to drive them everywhere, and this can place a strain on their relationships.
An arrest on a DUI charge is also expensive monetarily. In order to have their licenses reinstated, they must have the Ignition Interlock Device or IID installed in their vehicles, but they will be required to pay for the installation as well as the maintenance. They must also pay much higher auto insurance premiums.
The problem is compounded when someone is seriously hurt in the collision. Just this fact alone is enough to make them feel extremely guilty. If someone dies, they would be charged with vehicular manslaughter, and this could result in a prison sentence.
Although you may feel remorseful, you do not have to plead guilty to this offense. You have the right to hire a DUI lawyer and defend yourself in court. Contact a DUI lawyer today if you have been arrested on a drunk driving charge.
