National Motorists Assn: How to Avoid a DUI

A DUI CONVICTION HAS LONG TERM EFFECTS

With legal penalties for DUI convictions increasing, and the continued agenda of organizations like MADD bringing constant publicity to the issue, and the importance of having a clean driving record for employment, you need to know the impact of being convicted for DUI.  Even a first offense can bring huge fines and tarnish your driving record.

Any person with virtually any amount of alcohol in their system is a candidate for a drunk-driving citation.  Below is an overview of what you might be looking at if charged with a DUI.
Some Potential Costs for a DUI Conviction:

Large Fines
Significant Court Costs including bail
Thousands of dollars in Attorney Fees
Towing and Vehicle Storage Fees
Alcohol Education Program Enrollment
Driver License Reinstatement Fees
Ignition Interlock Program Costs
Higher Insurance Premiums (SR-22 Form.  An SR-22 is a document required as proof of  financial responsibility by the court or under state law for persons convicted of certain traffic violations)

To obtain a restricted license:

Obtain an order from the judge
Pay a Fee (varies by state)
Show proof of Insurance
Take complete driver license exam

In addition, you may need to:

Show proof that all fines and court costs have been to the  court  for the violation.
Proof of completion of alcohol/drug program (depending on state)

HOW TO AVOID GETTING A DUI:

Even someone who has had the very little to drink is a candidate for a DUI arrest.  There are several steps you can take to avoid drawing attention to yourself or convicting yourself for DUI.

1.  Make sure your vehicle is in proper working order.  No broken lights, no equipment violations and proper registration and license plates.

2.  Violating traffic laws is obviously an invite for a stop

3.  Driving a car registered to a DUI conviction greatly increases your chances of being stopped.

4.   Avoid those areas where alcohol is served, taverns, clubs, etc.  especially in the evening and early morning hours.

5.  Keep all of your documents like registration and insurance readily available

6.  Be courteous, but admit nothing
7.  Do not submit to or agree to perform a field sobriety test.  There is no benefit to you that derives from taking this test.  Unlike the “implied consent” chemical test, there is no penalty for refusal.

Spend some time researching traffic laws in your state.  Know your rights as a driver.  The more informed you are, the better you will handle the situation.  For more information on DUI’s and other traffic related issues, visit the NMA website at www.motorists.org/dui