Let’s make this clear: driving under influence (DUI) is a serious offense no matter where you are. A DUI conviction can impact your life in various ways. Besides showing up every time a background check is run against your name, a DUI conviction can strip you of certain rights and privileges.
A DUI conviction can impact your career in multiple ways. Here are some of them:
A DUI conviction can block you from getting certain jobs
Most DUI cases are classified as felony charges. Oftentimes, most potential employers will ask you to check “yes” or “no” in response to the question, “Have you ever been convicted of a crime?” If you have been convicted of DUI, you will most definitely check “yes,” and this will, obviously, impact your chances of getting hired.
A DUI conviction can give a potential employer the impression that you have an alcohol and rules problem. Most government jobs, like the military, require a clean criminal record. Some employers will also bypass your application thanks to your DUI record.
You may be unable to commute to work
Besides the fines and potential jail time, one of the consequences of a DUI conviction is usually the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. This can greatly impact your professional and social lives as a license suspension can greatly hinder your ability to move around, including driving to work.
You could lose your entire livelihood
If you are a commercial vehicle driver, such as an 18-wheeler, there is a pretty good chance a DUI conviction will impact both your standard and commercial driver’s licenses. Most often, a second DUI conviction with a CDL would often result in a permanent ban from operating commercial vehicles.
Being convicted of a DUI can be detrimental to your current and future employment prospects in multiple ways. If you have been arrested on suspicion of drunk driving, it is important that you take immediate steps to defend yourself and avoid the penalties that come with a conviction.
