Ways a DUI Can Hurt Your Career
Posted on Jun 30, 2015 7:20am PDT
If you are convicted of DUI, the consequences don't end with a fine and possible jail time. Whether you're aware of it or not, a DUI conviction could have a major impact on your job, not to mention your livelihood. Here are ways that a DUI can hurt your career.
#1. Suspended license: If your license is suspended and you don't get a hardship licensed that allows you to drive to and from work, you may be stuck riding the bus or relying on friends for rides. Since neither option is reliable, you could get fired if you're late or miss too much work.
#2. At will employment states: Many states such as California are "at will" employment states. Meaning, an employer maintains the right to fire an employee for any reason, with the exception of discrimination. If you're sent to jail, or if community service or alcohol education programs take you away from your job, they may be within their rights to fire you.
#3. Loss of insurance: If you drive for a living and you manage to keep your license, your insurance carrier may not insure people with DUIs. If you happen to be covered by your employer's insurance, your employer could lose coverage if they keep you. Even if you manage to stay covered, your employer's insurance may be too expensive, and your employer may decide to let you go.
# 4. Professional licenses: Many licensing agencies that issue professional license for doctors, lawyers, nurses, CPAs, and even plumbers require that arrests be disclosed to the licensing agency. Depending on the agency and the state that you live in, a DUI could cause you to lose your license and your job.
If you are facing DUI charges, contact a DUI defense attorney who can help protect your future and your career!