How Can a DUI Affect My Driving Privileges in California?

Car accident lawyers in San Francisco, California shed light on how a DUI can affect a person’s driving record and what the repercussions are when driving while under the influence.

In an effort to decrease the number of car accidents that occur due to a driver operating their vehicle while under the influence, there are many repercussions a person faces when caught and charged with a DUI. The facts pertaining to DUI-related auto accidents are shocking. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway Loss Data Institute, in 2014 alone, California lost 1,107 drivers in car accidents where alcohol was involved. Out of that amount, 881 reflects the number of drivers with known blood alcohol content (BAC) levels. That means California fell into second place compared to all other states within the U.S. with the highest amount of fatally injured drivers where alcohol had some sort of involvement.

A DUI can place points on your license that could lead to it being suspended.

Besides a DUI putting everyone’s life at risk, including the driver, it also has a negative effect on your driving record. For instance, DMV.org has highlighted the point system used within the state of California and how it works. If you are caught drinking and driving, there is a chance you will receive one point on your license. If you are caught driving while under the influence, or your reckless manner has harmed others in the process of you operating your vehicle, you will more than likely receive two points on your license. So what exactly does this mean?

Car crash attorneys in San Francisco, California highlight some facts from DMV.org that state “some or all of your driving privileges may be revoked or suspended in California if:”

• Four or more points are placed on your license within a 12-month period.
• Six or more points are added to your driving record within a 24-month period.
• Eight or more points are recorded on your license within 36 months.

Something else to consider before getting behind the wheel after drinking is a law that could significantly impact your life for many years to come. The California Department of Motor Vehicles points out that a driver who acquires a DUI offense will indefinitely see it appear on their driving record for 10 years. Therefore, when an employer requests a copy of this record, they will see you have been charged with a DUI if it has occurred within the last 10 years.

Insurance companies also use your driving record to determine the cost of your policy.

San Francisco, California auto accident lawyers also point out that your insurance can significantly be impacted as well as these companies do pull a report when determining how much your coverage is going to cost.

Driving while under the influence poses a significant threat to all occupants on the roadways, and can negatively impact your driving record for several years as well. If you have recently been involved in a car accident and alcohol was a contributing factor, reach out to USAttorneys.com today where you will be connected with a reputable California car crash law firm local to you who can assist during this traumatic time.