Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is a crime that carries severe consequences in Pennsylvania. Unsurprisingly, it’s one of the leading causes of crashes, injuries, and fatalities on the state’s roads. If you’re convicted of DUI in Pennsylvania, it could drastically affect your future opportunities in more ways than one you might not have expected. In this blog post, we’ll explore the real consequences of a DUI in Pennsylvania and why you should take the matter seriously.
License Suspension
A DUI conviction can lead to an automatic suspension of your driver’s license in Pennsylvania. The duration of the suspension depends on the severity of the offense and whether it’s your first or subsequent DUI offense. For example, if it’s your first DUI offense, you may face a license suspension of 12 months. Moreover, you may be required to complete an approved DUI education program and pay fees to restore your driver’s license.
Abominable Fines and Penalties
In addition to license suspension, a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania attracts significant fines and penalties. Even for first-time offenders, fines can range from $300 to $5,000, depending on the circumstances leading to the arrest. You may also face imprisonment or community service, especially if your blood-alcohol level exceeds the legal limit.
Your Employment Is at Risk
Aside from the legal consequences of a DUI in Pennsylvania, your employment is also at risk. If you depend on a professional license to earn a living, a DUI conviction can lead to revocation or suspension of the license. In addition, a DUI offense can remain on your criminal record, affecting your future job prospects. Employers are increasingly using criminal background checks to vet potential employees, thus limiting your employment opportunities.
More Stringent Insurance Rates
A common but overlooked consequence of a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania is the impact on your insurance rates. Most insurance companies will view a DUI offense as a high-risk indicator, hence leading to higher premiums. It may take years for your premiums to return to favorable rates after a DUI conviction, and some carriers may refuse to offer coverage at all.
DUI Defense with Legal Assistance
If you’re facing a DUI charge in Pennsylvania, it’s essential to understand the complexity of the legal proceedings and the potential consequences. Fortunately, you don't have to face these consequences alone. Legal assistance like that offered by The Law Offices of Joseph Lesniak, LLC can be instrumental in protecting your rights, ensuring you get fair representation, and reducing or avoiding the potential damages.
In conclusion, a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania can have far-reaching implications than just the legal fines and penalties. Losing your license, facing higher insurance premiums, jeopardizing your career prospects, and having a DUI on your criminal record are all real possibilities. If you’re facing a DUI charge in Pennsylvania, seek legal assistance from experienced attorneys like The Law Offices of Joseph Lesniak, LLC. They can help you understand the potential consequences and guide you through the legal process, ensuring you get the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation.
