Gibbons Law Firm: Legal Dangers of Drinking and Driving

Thursday, November 29, 2018

How a DUI Can Impact Your Life

With the Christmas season upon us, many people will be gathering for holiday parties. Whether you are getting together with friends, attending a work Christmas party, or going to visit family out of town, there are many opportunities when drinking will be an option. If you do partake in an alcoholic beverage, don't get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Not only is it dangerous for yourself and anyone else on the road, it is illegal.

Our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks knows there are a number of holiday gatherings this time of year and many people like to celebrate the season with a few beverages. Drinking and driving is a major issue all year round, but even more so during the holiday season. If you're drinking, do not drive - it's that simple.

Ways a DUI Can Impact Your Life:

Lose License

Getting your license revoked is a common consequence of driving under the influence. This can impact your personal and professional life. If you rely on your vehicle for transportation it can have a devastating impact on your life.

Legal Fees

Steep fees may be placed upon you if you are charged with a DUI. In addition to these fees, you'll likely incur the cost of legal representation. These expenses can add up quickly and you may find yourself in a tight financial situation

Loss of Employment

Some employers have policies about a criminal record and a conviction can be terms for your termination. It can also be hard to find a new job since most employers run a background check on potential candidates. This is just one of the ways a conviction can impact your professional life.

Change in Personal Relationships

Some people in your life may look down upon a criminal conviction, like a DUI. This type of situation can be damaging for your personal relationships. It can be very stressful to go through a conviction like this. Your personal relationships may suffer if you are charged with drinking and driving.

Insurance Rate Hike

Most insurance companies will charge more monthly premiums after a driver has been convicted of a DUI or BUI. It can also be hard to shop around for new insurance with a charge like this. Insurance companies will see this as reckless driving behavior and the risk of insuring a person with this conviction goes up.

Now that you know about some of the ways a DUI conviction near the Lake of the Ozarks can negatively impact your life, you're more aware of the legal dangers you may face if you choose to drink and drive. If you happen to make the mistake of driving while intoxicated and are pulled over, you'll likely want to find legal representation. Our criminal defense lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks is here for you. Contact our Lake Ozark law firm to schedule your first consultation to discuss your options.

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Thursday, February 8, 2018

Dangers of Drinking and Driving

With Lake of the Ozarks Mardi Gras Pub Crawl right around the corner, it's important to keep the legal dangers of drinking and driving top of mind. As you go out for the evening, remember it is best to designate a driver or take a cab. Here at Gibbons Law Firm, we want you to have a good time AND stay safe. Our attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks has provided some of the side effects that drinking can have if you try to operate a vehicle.

Delayed Reaction Time

Alcohol can inhibit the time it takes for you to react to a situation. If you are operating a vehicle, you may not have the same reaction time as you would sober. If someone in front of you stops abruptly, you may not be able to get your vehicle stopped in time. If a deer jumps out in the road, you will likely not be able to react in a timely manner to avoid the animal. Swerving may be your instinct and this can lead to overcorrecting or travel off the road.

Lack of Coordination

Your coordination may be impaired when driving under the influence of alcohol. It may make it difficult to navigate the roadway safely. Staying between the lines can be difficult for someone who has been drinking. Coordination is a vital part of safely operating a vehicle.

Blurred Vision

Road lights, signs, and other car's headlights can all blur together if you have been drinking. Many times a drunk driver will subconsciously drive toward a light that catches their eye. This can lead to a very dangerous situation on the road, especially with oncoming traffic.

Impaired Judgement

When drinking, your judgment may be impaired. This is not a good attribute of a driver. Your judgment of traffic and other situations on the roadway may be hindered if you have alcohol in your system. It's best to have a ride home lined up before you even head out for the Mardi Gras festivities.

If you are pulled over for drinking and driving, you will likely get a DWI charge. The legal ramifications of such a charge can have a lasting impact on your entire life. A revoked license, jail time, a hefty fine, and educational courses are all punishments you may be sentenced to if you drink and drive. Help keep the roadways safer and stay off them if you have been drinking. A taxi is much less expensive than a DUI conviction!

Now that you know the dangers of drinking and driving, you can be prepared before you go out for Mardi Gras Pub Crawl. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm wants you to stay safe as you enjoy this annual event in the area. If you do end up with legal trouble on your hands, give Gibbons Law Firm a call. We always offer a free initial consultation with our experienced lawyer. Remember to stay safe and designate a driver if you are out drinking!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.