Like many other Americans, you may choose to drink socially to have fun with your peers and relieve some of your career or college stressors. However fun the partying may seem, driving drunk to your next destination is not worth the severe consequences on your life and those around you.
At a minimum, you face temporary license suspension, high insurance premiums, court-mandated community service, education programs, significant fines and jail time. However, the long-term consequences of driving under the influence (DUI) are less known but can linger for years.
Effect on employment opportunities
When applying for jobs, your prospective employer often runs a background check. The job application might ask if you have a misdemeanor or felony conviction. Suppose you want to work in the government sector, in childhood education, as a commercial truck driver or in the military. In that case, securing employment after a DUI conviction becomes nearly impossible. Additionally, if you intend to work as a licensed professional such as a physician, nurse or attorney, a previous DUI may prevent you from obtaining a license to practice.
If you lose your driving privileges, even temporarily, you could have issues getting to work, school, career fairs or job interviews. Instead, you will have to rely on friends or use public transportation or ride-sharing services (e.g., Uber and Lyft).
Impact on relationships
A DUI arrest can affect the way others in your life perceive you. Local media might publicize the arrest even if you try to keep the information private. Your employer, coworkers, family, friends and romantic partners may all feel differently about you. You may experience feelings of embarrassment or shame around others.
Think twice before you drive drunk because a DUI will significantly impact your job prospects.
