How deadly is a DUI? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that in 2021 alone, 13,384 people died because of drunk driving accidents – that is, one person in a span of 39 minutes.
According to the DUI/DWI lawyers from Cohen & Bernstein, LLC, the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or any substance are very dangerous. This often forces authorities to push offenders to install an ignition interlock device (IID) or a breath test device connected to the vehicle’s ignition. A vehicle with this device cannot be operated without the driver blowing through the interlock device.
A DUI or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) conviction is emotionally and financially draining. The stress it brings is unmeasurable, and countless emotions arise, bringing an individual to different levels of anxiety and restlessness, affecting not only themselves but everyone around them. But we cannot deny that laws should be followed, especially for drivers who have the privilege to operate vehicles.
Emotions of Convicted Individuals
Being convicted in a criminal or civil case affects the daily life of an individual. Depending on the gravity of the conviction, the agony could be temporary or permanent.
Different types of emotions are experienced, such as guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression. Driving under the influence (DUI) convictions create significant emotional distress that affects the personal outlook on life, including relationships with family and friends.
Given below are the emotional effects that those with a DUI conviction experience.
- Concerns about Legal Consequences
Fear and anxiety would be felt, especially for first-time offenders. The thought of potential imprisonment and having a criminal record on file could affect their status as a good citizen.
- Blaming Themselves and Regretting that the Accident Happened
After a conviction is made, self-blame and regret of having to hurt innocent people or damaging a property are common. They may also feel that the accident could not have happened if not for their actions.
- Judgment from Other People
People around a convicted individual would look at them in a negative light. Friends, family, and even neighbors will now see the person differently, making a very nice person before the accident a dreaded individual after.
The financial consequences, such as an increase in insurance premiums, legal fees, fines, and the probability of losing a job, create a world of concern for how life will be in the future.
- Coping with Family Issues
Our family is the core, heart, and soul that make up a home. If a spouse, sibling, child, or any family member is convicted, every individual in the home is affected. Distress, anger, and sadness are felt simultaneously as a part of a home, a part of a whole.
A Conviction is a Chance for Change
As for many wrong actions in our lives, a DUI conviction would be a strong reason for change. A life-changing motivation for better actions and better decisions.
Driving under the influence would not yield good results. It will only do more harm than good. The consequences you will face after a conviction would damage you financially, emotionally, physically, and mentally.
Authorities, family members, friends, and even alcoholic products always remind us to never drink and drive. A slogan that has been repeatedly advertised on television, on social media, and, of course, on the internet.
Drivers who follow traffic regulations help keep order on the roads. They also minimize the risk of accidents and collisions. Obeying laws while driving means that you are a responsible and considerate driver for pedestrians and other drivers, creating a safer environment for all.
Sean Hocking
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