Most people rely on the freedom to drive to conduct their daily lives. They transport themselves to and from work on a daily basis. They may also run errands and transport their family members to school for medical appointments.
People become so acclimated to driving themselves places on demand that the idea of losing a driver’s license can seem like a major hardship. However, driver’s license revocation is a standard penalty for those convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses. Depending on the circumstances, people can lose their driving privileges for far longer than they might initially expect.
Repeat offenses lead to longer license penalties
The state imposes progressive penalties in scenarios involving repeated violations of the same law. A driver who has a history of driving after drinking may face more serious penalties, including a longer driver’s license revocation, than first-time defendants.
A first-time DUI that does not involve bodily injury could lead to a license revocation that lasts between 180 days and one year. If someone got hurt, the minimum revocation period is three years. Those facing a second DUI within five years of the first can lose their license for up to five years.
Third offenses within 10 years of a second conviction can lead to a revocation lasting at least 10 years. A fourth DUI conviction can lead to permanent revocation. Drivers can sometimes be eligible for a hardship reinstatement when facing long-term revocation after repeat offenses.
Those who have to drive as part of their work responsibilities could be at risk of employment consequences when they lose their driver’s licenses. A DUI conviction could have a particularly negative impact on those who drive as their primary job responsibility.
Motorists can lose their commercial driver’s license (CDL) eligibility after even a first DUI conviction. Those with multiple DUI offenses on their record may become permanently ineligible for a CDL in the future.
Anyone accused of impairment at the wheel may benefit from looking at different criminal defense strategies. Having support when preparing to respond to criminal charges can help drivers avoid a conviction or minimize the consequences the courts impose.
