Drunk drivers gain almost nothing except a life-or-death situation. When someone drives intoxicated, they’ve had too much to drink and don’t want to walk or find another way home.

A drunk driver should only drive to save time. In exchange for this seeming benefit, they risk death, disfigurement, lifelong handicap, disgrace, financial difficulty, jail time, career loss, and other disasters. Is it worth it?

Suspension of License

Your driving privileges may be temporarily revoked following a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) either by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or the court. The minimum and maximum suspension times are not the same in every state. For example: in many places, a first-time offender will have their license revoked for three months. However, the suspension period lengthens with each further DUI conviction.

If you deny a breathalyzer or blood test in many regions, your license will be revoked promptly (before you ever go to court).

Time in Prison

Will I face criminal charges for my DUI? Is it possible to win a DUI case? These are typically some of the first things asked by those arrested for driving under the influence to know. While many states do not need jail time for a first-time DUI conviction (if no one was harmed or killed), some do. Generally speaking, these compulsory sentences last anywhere from one day to one week. Most states need a jail sentence of more than a few days for repeat offenders.

The severity of the consequences you face depends on the specifics of your DUI case. For instance, if the accident victims decide to file a civil lawsuit against the driver for their property damage and injuries, the motorist could be subject to a second civil lawsuit.

The Cost of Your Car Insurance May Increase After a DUI

A person with a DUI conviction is automatically labeled as a dangerous motorist. As a result, your insurance company will probably refuse to renew your policy or charge you more money.

Society’s Repercussions

Drunk driving deaths can affect whole communities. Drunk driving will ruin the victims’ families. You could kill a parent, sibling, spouse, child, or friend. You may kill a friend or relative. You may lose contact with loved ones who are embarrassed by your transgression.

A DUI conviction can have far-reaching personal and professional implications, even if you didn’t kill or seriously injure someone. After a DUI charge, everyone in your life will view you differently. Avoiding social settings can lead to anxiety, loneliness, and despair.

How to Avoid Getting a DUI

Please don’t drink and drive

Whatever the level of intoxication, you shouldn’t go behind the wheel. Even though alcohol’s effects on the brain and body are legal below the 0.08% BAC threshold in some states, drinking to excess is never a good idea. Focus and alertness may suffer.

Spend your money on a driver

The best approach to avoid driving under the influence is to leave the car at home if you plan on drinking. Instead, you can take public transportation, a cab, or rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft.

Find a sober driver

Decide who will be the designated driver if you’re going out with others. There’s no need for this person to drink.

Get some sleep and then drive sober the next day

Make arrangements to stay with a friend or relative. A hotel room is another option. Always wait till you’re sober before getting behind the wheel.

Prevent a drunk driver from getting behind the wheel

If you or someone you know is planning on taking the wheel after consuming alcohol, you should intervene immediately. This could save their life by shielding them from violence or even a DUI charge.