Many people who get arrested for driving under the influence have done so before, at least according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The FBI says that the average impaired driver has driven under the influence over 80 times before getting arrested. And that’s just before a first arrest, so the number could be even higher if it is a subsequent arrest.
If this seems like a surprising number, it perhaps just speaks to how people fall into certain habits and patterns. Someone may consistently drive home from the bar every weekend, thinking that they have just “had a few drinks” and that it should be safe. This becomes normal behavior to them, and they don’t even realize that they are over the legal limit almost every time they drive. When they eventually get caught, they’re shocked by the arrest because this particular day was no different than any other.
What are the ramifications of a DUI arrest?
Drivers need to be careful not to fall into these patterns. A drunk driving arrest can have very serious ramifications, including a license suspension, time behind bars and extensive fines and fees. Some drivers also have to go through probation.
On top of that, a DUI can impact your life in other ways. It can harm your reputation if you are a well-known public figure. It could harm your ability to work, especially if you need a driver’s license simply to commute to your job. A college student who gets arrested on DUI charges could be expelled or suspended from school.
For all of these reasons and more, it’s crucial that those who are facing charges understand all of their legal options.