Driving under the influence (DUI) charges are among the most serious driving offenses possible. The state typically treats a DUI charge as a misdemeanor offense rather than a traffic ticket. In certain scenarios, drivers can even face felony charges over an alleged DUI offense.
It is relatively common for those accused of drunk driving to plead guilty. While they may assert their innocence, they don’t see the value in taking the issue to court. They think that by pleading guilty, they can potentially limit the penalties the courts impose or can at least keep their costs as low as possible.
Drivers who plead guilty to DUI offenses may have failed to properly analyze the long-term impact that a DUI conviction could have. One of the most challenging consequences of a DUI is the loss of driving privileges. How long can the courts suspend or revoke a driver’s license after a DUI conviction?
Suspensions last six months or longer
Factors including whether anyone got hurt and the prior record of the driver accused influence what happens after a DUI conviction. After a first DUI conviction, a driver is likely to lose their license for at least 180 days, if not for a full year.
If a first DUI involves causing injury to others, then the driver faces a three-year minimum license suspension. After a second DUI conviction within five years of the first, a driver could lose their license for up to five years.
A third offense within 10 years of a second DUI could lead to a 10-year license revocation. Anyone convicted of four DUI offenses can lose their license permanently. In some cases, drivers may be eligible for a hardship license after serving part of their license suspension or revocation.
Losing a driver’s license for 6 months or longer can cause financial hardship. People either have to use on-demand transportation services or rely on public transit and the goodwill of others. In some cases, driver’s license suspensions can put people at risk of job loss. Even those who never drive for work might become habitually late or chronically absent because of transportation issues.
Understanding the secondary consequences of a DUI conviction could inspire people to fight their pending charges. The loss of a driver’s license can be frustrating, embarrassing and expensive. Fighting DUI charges can potentially help people preserve their driving privileges.