How a DUI Charge Can Affect Your Life

Charges of driving under the influence are taken very seriously throughout Minnesota. The reality is that a significant percentage of all fatal traffic accidents each year across the state occur due to alcohol-impaired driving. Everybody on the roadway needs to understand that driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol is incredibly dangerous. Even if a person does not get into an accident, there are serious consequences if a person is caught driving under the influence of alcohol. Most of us are familiar with the possible jail time associated with DUIs, but these are not the only consequences.

Employment Prospects

Many people charged with DUI face significant consequences from their employer. This is often related to restrictions on a person’s ability to drive. If you have a job that requires driving, particularly any job that requires a commercial driver’s license, you may face termination from your place of employment. Additionally, finding new work with a misdemeanor or felony DUI may prove to be difficult.

Civil Lawsuit

If you caused any property damage or injuries as a result of operating a vehicle under the influence, you could face a civil lawsuit. The victim of the property damage or injuries has the ability to file a lawsuit against you in Minnesota court so that they can recover the compensation they are owed.

Car Insurance

Following a DUI charge and conviction, it is very likely that your vehicle insurance will be canceled. As you work to secure insurance from another insurer, you will certainly see an increase in your rate. You may have heard of SR-22 insurance. This refers to a form that will need to be sent from your insurance carrier to the DMV, stating that they are providing you with coverage. Purchasing additional coverage to meet the SR-22 requirements can become costly.

Personal Relationships

Those charged with DUI quickly realize that their personal relationships may change. The reality is that a DUI charge and conviction can negatively impact your relationships with family members, your significant other, and even your friends. Like it or not, a DUI becomes a reflection of your character. This may not seem fair, and that is why it is so important for everyone to avoid driving while under the influence of alcohol.

Mental Health

It is important to take a serious look at how and why your DUI arrest happened in the first place. Was this the first time something like this has happened, or have you regularly driven while impaired and just not been caught? The truth is that many people charged with DUI have underlying mental health disorders that contribute to excessive drinking and bad decision making. This can include alcoholism, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more. There is no shame in seeking help for mental illnesses, and doing so just might save your life.

Get Legal Representation in Mankato

If you have been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, you need to speak to an attorney as soon as possible. At Knutson+Casey, our qualified and experienced team is ready to get to work on your behalf today. We will conduct a complete investigation into your case and work to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed altogether. Do not try to handle this case on your own. The potential consequences are far too serious. You can contact our Mankato DUI defense attorneys for a free consultation online or by calling (507) 344-8888.