Although the penalties for a DUI can include jail time, probation and a loss of driving privileges, these are not the only consequences you may face. A DUI can also have a significant impact on your career prospects. This happens in the following ways.
Background checks
Many employers now routinely run background checks on job applicants. If you have a DUI on your record, it will likely show up on a background check and could cause you to not get the job. Employers, for one, may be concerned about hiring someone with a DUI because it could reflect negatively on their business. What’s more, if the job you are applying for involves driving, then having a DUI will almost certainly disqualify you from getting the job.
Loss of current job
If you already have a job, then getting a DUI can also cause you to lose that job. This is especially true if you are in a position of responsibility. Employers may be concerned about liability issues if they keep someone on who has a DUI, including the possibility that you could get into an accident while on the job. You may also be subject to company policy.
Difficulty getting insurance
Some jobs require you to have liability insurance, such as if you are a doctor or a lawyer. If there is a DUI on your record, you will have a hard time securing this type of insurance. As a result, you may be denied the job. For instance, if you are a doctor with a DUI, your malpractice insurance premiums will be much higher than they would otherwise be, and this could make it difficult for you to find employment.
In short, a DUI can have far-reaching consequences that go beyond just the legal penalties. In addition, even if you don’t lose your job, having a DUI on your record can still make it difficult for you to find employment and maintain your current job. If you are facing a DUI, it is important to consider all the possible defenses and options available to you.