It’s not news that driving while under the influence is a bad idea. If you would like to know just what the consequences of doing so are, read on to see the top five.
Jail Sentences
When caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you run the risk of being sentenced to jail time. While different states may have different details of charges and circumstances in which the charges are handed out, driving while under the influence generally results in jail time. For instance, in Pennsylvania, the minimum sentence for a DUI is 72 hours in jail, a $1,000 to $5,000 fine, and a suspension of the driver’s license. To avoid similar consequences wherever you live, it’s best to never drive while intoxicated.
Fines
Fines for DUI, similar to jail terms, can vary both by state and degree of the DUI offense. One factor that will play a major role is having a number of previous DUI convictions as well as certain aggravating factors which will carry higher fines. The range goes from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on different situations, so you can pay a large amount in fines when you’re caught driving under the influence.
Injury and Death
When someone drives under the influence, they’re in a compromised frame of mind. Because they can’t make good decisions and have impaired reaction time, they’re a lot more likely to cause an auto accident. With the Illinois Secretary of State sharing that there were 11,585 accidents in 2014 involving a tractor-trailer or semi-truck that led to death or injuries, it’s clear that auto injuries are nothing to joke about. To avoid causing others or yourself a serious injury or worse, you should avoid getting behind the wheel while you’re intoxicated. Also, avoid being driven around by someone who you know is intoxicated as they are more likely to get into an accident that will possibly cause you injury or worse.
Suspension of Your Driver’s License
As mentioned, another consequence of driving while under the influence is a possible suspension of your driver’s license. This can be for different periods of time depending on the degree of damage you cause as well as the laws of the state you reside in. To avoid the complications and inconveniences that come with having your driver’s license suspended, you should make sure to only drive while sober. You may not get into an auto accident, but you will still pay the price as you’re in a state that predisposes you to get into one.
Destruction of Property
The final consequence you may suffer as a result of driving while under the influence is destroying property. You will be liable to pay for it, and this is an extra cost that anyone can live without. You may also most likely destroy your own vehicle and have to spend a lot of time and money fixing it, having to find out the Vehicle Identification Number in some cases in order to get the right parts. This number is also known as the VIN, and it’s a 17-character number comprising both capital letters and numbers that are used to identify individual vehicles. You may also get a poor rating as far as future vehicle insurance goes because your reputation as a driver will be tainted.
The factors outlined above should make it easier for you to avoid driving while under the influence. From financial fines to a negative reputation and possible issues with your work and family life, there are many consequences that you can suffer, and that will make your life harder for you and the people close to you. Instead of driving while under the influence, avoid going anywhere after you get inebriated. If this is not an option, make use of ride-sharing applications and hail a ride from your location to your home.
