One consequence of getting charged with driving under the influence (DUI) is losing your driving privileges. This consequence can make life inconvenient and difficult; however, you might be able to keep your driver's license after getting a DUI. To do this, you will need a good DUI attorney to help you fight for this. Here are some of the avenues your DUI attorney might explore as he or she helps you with your case.
Shorter Revocation Of Driver's License
Almost anyone charged with a DUI will end up losing his or her driving privileges, but the amount of time varies. Each state has different laws regarding this punishment after DUI, but most states also offer ways to get the period reduced.
If this was your first DUI charge, your attorney may have an easier time helping you get your revocation period reduced; however, you may still lose your license for around 90 days in most cases. If you have had multiple violations similar to this one, you will most likely lose your driving privileges for at least one year.
To get a shorter time frame for this, your attorney might request that you complete a driver's education course. If your attorney can get this approved, you will have a certain amount of time to take a course in defensive driving. When you do this, you must make sure you choose a course that is approved in your state.
Requirement Of SR-22 Insurance
Your attorney could also ask the court to forego suspending your license if you agree to carry SR-22 insurance. SR-22 insurance is designed for high-risk drivers, and anyone that is charged with a DUI is likely to need this type of insurance coverage.
If you have a clean driving record and criminal history, your attorney might ask the court to simply require this option instead of suspending your license. If the court approves this request, you will have to purchase this special type of policy through a car insurance company. It may cost more than regular coverage, but it will help you keep your driver's license.
If you are required to get this coverage, you will need to make sure you do, and you must do it by the deadline date you are given. Failing to get SR-22 coverage when it is required will lead to a loss of driving privileges.
Get A Restricted Driver's License
One other avenue your attorney might consider is asking for a restricted driver's license. Courts do not typically approve restricted licenses after DUIs, but they do sometimes. A restricted driver's license is one that will allow you to drive certain places. If you do not want to lose your license because you will have no ride to and from work, having a restricted driver's license would be a great outcome of your case.
This license would allow you to drive to and from work each day; however, you would not be able to drive anywhere else with the license unless it is a place that was approved by the court. If you are caught driving somewhere else, you could find yourself in more trouble.
You should also realize that the court has the power to require that you purchase and install an interlock ignition device in your car. This is a device that prevents a person from driving if the sensor detects alcohol on his or her breath. This is something that is often required for people with multiple DUI driving violations.
It is hard to know how the court will handle your DUI case, but you will have a better chance with it if you have a good lawyer. If you need a lawyer for help on your case, contact a DUI attorney in your area.
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