Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) can have a lasting negative impact on your life. A DUI often means paying hefty fines and in some cases may even mean some jail time. Your driver's license will likely be suspended for a designated amount of time as well. After a DUI many end up losing their jobs and find that it has an impact on their social lives. Of course, if this happens to you, minimizing the damage will likely be your primary goal. If you have been charged with a DUI, here are three things to know.
An Attorney Can Help
If you have been charged with a DUI, the first thing that you should be aware of is that an attorney can help. The laws regarding driving under the influence can vary significantly from state to state. By hiring an attorney your chances of getting the best possible outcome for your situation will increase. An attorney can work to have fines and other punishments reduced. On average you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for the services of a DUI attorney.
Your Auto Insurance Rates Will Go Up
The cost of a DUI is more than just legal fees and fines. You will also see impacts in other areas of your life such as auto insurance. Typically after a DUI charge, your auto insurance rates will increase significantly. On average you can expect your rates to increase by 80 percent after a DUI. In some cases, they may jump by up to 371 percent. A DUI charge will also stay on your record for years depending on what state you live in. Your attorney will be able to give you this information which can help you estimate how long you will be paying these increased rates.
The Process Takes Time
Another thing to be aware of after being charged with a DUI is that the legal process can take awhile. Of course, hiring a DUI attorney as soon as possible is key. From your arrest to the resolution of this process, it can take anywhere from 6 months to a year. It's important to keep this in mind after being charged. Chances are that driving under the influence will have an impact on your life for a very long time.
Driving under the influence is something that you should avoid at all costs. However, if you are charged with a DUI, there are a few things to know. First, an attorney can help. Hiring a DUI attorney can mean the best possible outcome for your situation. You will also likely see your auto insurance rates increase significantly after being charged. The legal process of a DUI can also take months to come to completion.
