Things are just not going how you'd like... You made a mistake and got behind the wheel after drinking, got a DUI, and now things just keep getting worse. You have to pay lots of money for things like bail, court costs, and interlock device fees. You have to spend lots of time at hearings, appointments, and AA meetings. But at least you can't lose your job for a DUI conviction... Right?
Yep, you can definitely lose your job because of drunk driving
There are so many factors that go into this. What type of job do you do? Do you have to drive clients or co-workers? Do you drive a company vehicle or heavy machinery? Does your position require a CDL or other special license? Are you covered on the company's auto insurance? There are so many factors that will probably play a part in whether your drunk driving conviction affects your employment.
Most employment relationships are "at will" meaning that a company can let you go for any reason as long as it's not due to something illegal (protected classes including things like race, age, gender, religion, etc). There are so many considerations, and ultimately it's up to your employer whether your now tainted driving history is going to cause a problem for your employment.
We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it's important that you face your consequences in the process of trying to move forward. That unfortunately may mean adding "find new job" to your to do list.
Future employment: Be honest
Something you may not realize is how many times you’re asked “Have you ever been convicted of a crime?” and similar questions on things like job and housing applications. It may be tempting to lie or partially exclude the truth. But being honest about your past is the best way to move forward. If you’re applying for a job that depends on your ability to drive, you’ll probably have trouble getting that job and may need to find other employment avenues. But if you’re applying for a job that doesn’t depend on your ability to drive, many employers will not exclude you from consideration – unless they find out that you lied to get the job.
You should also be honest with yourself. Was this drunk driving incident a one-time thing that you’ll have no problem avoiding next time the temptation comes up? Or do you have a drinking problem? Being honest with yourself will be important to get you the help and support you need to move forward.
Be positive: You can do this!
You must accept your situation and the consequences that come with it. You must admit your mistakes and be prepared to handle it very differently next time you’re faced with the temptation to drink and drive. But you shouldn’t linger in this dark place for too long. Try to stay positive and find ways you can improve your own situation and even to help others facing similar issues. You’ve got this! And we’re here to help in your journey.
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Are you looking for a specific interlock device installation location? Smart Start of Alabama has locations in cities such as:
Interlock in Andalusia | Interlock in Birmingham | Interlock in Boaz | Interlock in Decatur | Interlock in Foley | Interlock in Mobile | Interlock in Montgomery | Interlock in Opelika | Interlock in Sheffield | Interlock in Tuscaloosa
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