So, you decided to get behind the wheel after having a few drinks. Your house is just a few blocks away from the bar, so you don’t think that you will run into any problems in the short distance.
Unfortunately, you crashed into a telephone pole after swerving into oncoming traffic. No one got hurt, but you broke the law when you decided to drive under the influence. Now, the red and blue lights are flashing behind you and you wished you had just walked home.
Continue reading to learn what to expect when you find yourself on the receiving end of a DUI in California.
Penalties Involved in a DUI
Most people are released from incarceration within a few hours of getting arrested for a DUI. Now, you have to figure out what you should do next.
You have ten days to contest your suspension with the DMV to keep your license after getting a DUI. Failing to contest means that you might lose your license for six months. Depending on your situation, you may also have to go to court for any criminal charges that driving under the influence.
In addition to the legal proceedings, your DUI penalty may also involve probation, license revocation, community service, fines, and possible jail time.
A first-time DUI offense may be different from one person to the next. You can expect to go through three to five years of probation, DUI school, and/or a license suspension. You may also have to pay several hundred dollars in fines. Depending on your specific situation, you might even spend a few days in jail.
Reinstating Your License
First-time offenders may continue to drive with a restricted license. This type of license allows you to drive to and from work and your treatment program.
To get a restricted license, you have to meet certain criteria. You have to be over 21 years old, submit to a chemical test, and avoid causing injuries while you are driving under the influence. If you are not eligible for a restricted license, you must complete the entire length of your suspension before applying to reinstate your license.
In California, you have to have certain insurance coverage to get your license back. You will also have to fill out an SR22 form that ensures you have the proper coverage. The DMV will be alerted if you fail to make these payments, and they can reinstate your suspension. Click to learn more about SR22 insurance near me.
You may also have to pay a fee to the DMV to get your license reinstated.
Facing a DUI in California
Driving under the influence has the potential to ruin your life (and the lives of those around you!), especially if you don’t take your charges seriously. When facing a DUI in California, you need to make sure that you take all of the necessary steps to get your license back.
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