While a single DUI can be devastating, those who are charged with multiple DUIs within a few years of one another could find themselves facing penalties that will actually affect them for decades to come. In addition to potentially having your license permanently revoked, you might also be facing a substantial amount of time in jail. Those are just a few of the reasons why repeat offenders need to immediately begin taking action to protect their future.
Seek Out Help
After being charged and convicted with multiple DUIs, the first thing a driver should think about is their health. Those who are unable to control their drinking can do permanent damage to their bodies and negatively impact all of their personal relationships. Substance abuse treatment programs are more effective than ever, and they are designed to help those who are struggling with alcohol rebuild their lives from the ground up.
Be Careful With Your Statements
During your traffic stop and immediately following your arrest, anything that you say to an officer, judge, or insurance provider could damage your case. Many drivers make the mistake of trying to talk their way out of the situation, but that rarely works. As soon as you are arrested, your only legal obligation is to give the law enforcement officer your contact information and sign off on the charges.
Contact Legal Professionals
As soon as you are able to do so, you should immediately contact a DUI lawyer. Just because you feel like the cards are stacked against you doesn’t mean that your case is hopeless. The primary goal of a DUI lawyer is to help their clients get through these types of situations with their records intact. Working with a legal representative will give you the best possible chance of having your charges reduced or dropped entirely.
Find Alternative Forms Of Transportation
Unless the DMV has given you a restricted license, you shouldn’t operate any vehicles whatsoever. Driving after your license has been suspended will almost always result in an additional misdemeanor charge. Finding an alternative way to get to work might seem more expensive, but it could save you from paying thousands in additional fines and fees.
At no point should a driver ever leave their second or third DUI up to chance. In some scenarios, they could be facing at least one year in prison and a permanent blemish on their record. Even if you can’t get the charges dropped entirely, you might be able to have them reduced to the point that they will not affect you for the rest of your life.
Author Bio: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer living in Boston, MA. When not writing, she enjoys reading and indoor rock climbing. Find her on Google +
