In the aftermath of a DUI, you are likely feeling a mix of complicated emotions, including fear and remorse. While driving under the influence is certainly a serious matter, the important thing is to remain clear-headed and take control of the situation. This should be something you learn from, but it shouldn't be something that ruins your entire life. Here are four ways to get back on track after a DUI:
Hire a Great Attorney
A DUI attorney, like those at the Law Offices of Daniel Aaronson, will represent your interests at court and help you navigate an administrative hearing at the DMV in order to attempt to keep your license. The consequences for a DUI can be severe, including a suspended license for months or even years, large fines, and even jail time. Hiring a qualified DUI lawyer is well worth it to give yourself the chance of avoiding or lessening some of these consequences.
Get a Transportation Plan in Place
If your license is suspended or revoked, you will need a plan for getting to work and generally getting around. Take this time to research public transportation in your area, sign up for ridesharing programs, and consider buying a bicycle so you can get around and get exercise at the same time. Losing your license doesn't have to mean losing all mobility and independence.
Seek Addiction Counseling if Needed
Depending on the circumstances of your arrest and your experience with drugs and alcohol, a DUI is often a wake-up call for those with an addiction problem. If you are unable to control your urge to drink or do drugs, and your substance abuse frequently leads to bad decisions like driving while intoxicated, you should seek professional help.
Look at the months after your arrest as a chance to deal with your problem head-on and have a fresh start. Schedule a consultation appointment with an addiction counselor, or make plans to attend an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.
Plan to Pay More for Insurance
After a DUI, the DMV will require that you submit a form called an SR-22 that you need to request from your car insurance company. Once you do so, your rates will most likely increase significantly for a few years because you will now be considered a "high risk" driver.
While there is no escaping higher rates after a DUI conviction, you may be able to save money by shopping around and switching carriers. If your license is revoked for a significant amount of time you may want to sell your car, so that you aren't making car payments and paying for expensive insurance you can't use. You can then use this time to save money so that when you start driving again you can more easily afford your higher insurance rates.
By following these steps, you will be able to make the most of a difficult situation and get your life back on track.
Share17 November 2015
Few things are more frustrating than being accused of a crime that you didn't commit. I found myself in this difficult situation a few years ago when I was with a friend who broke the law. However, I knew that I didn't do anything, which is why I hired an experienced criminal attorney to help me out. He carefully reviewed my case, talked with me about what court would be like, and helped me to wrap my head around the different punishments I might face. He helped to prove my innocence, and I decided to set up this blog to help other people to understand the importance of working with a professional.