The legal consequences of drunk driving in Colorado are pretty obvious. If convicted, you could lose your driver’s license, pay a fine and be required to go through rehab. In severe circumstances, you can even serve time in jail. However, the consequences of a DUI conviction do not end here.
The consequences of driving under influence (DUI) go beyond paying your price to society. Here are some of the non-legal consequences of a DUI conviction that you need to know.
A DUI conviction could impact your professional license
Pretty much every licensing board has strict policies regarding criminal convictions – and this includes a DUI conviction.
Industries like healthcare, aviation and education require members to be duly registered to practice. A DUI conviction can prompt the licensing board to take the following actions against you:
- An administrative probation
- Suspension of your practice license
- Revocation of your practice license
Any of these actions will certainly hurt your career. Besides, if a potential employer runs a background check on you, they may have second thoughts about hiring you.
A DUI conviction could hurt your education
Most colleges and universities tend to be adamant about admitting learners with criminal records. Even if you are already enrolled at the university, a DUI conviction may result in your suspension. And that is not all. A DUI conviction on your record can disqualify you from some scholarships and financial aid that you may genuinely need to fund your education.
A DUI conviction could hike your car insurance
Insurance companies consider drivers with DUI convictions to be “high risk.” Thus, having a DUI on your record can impact your insurance cost in a number of ways. First, you will dig deeper in your pocket when renewing your cover following a DUI conviction. And in the worst-case scenario, the insurance company may suspend or terminate your coverage altogether.
Drunk driving is a serious offense with a range of consequences. Find out how you can safeguard your rights when charged with drunk driving.
