Consequences Of Driving Under The Influence In Missouri
Once you step into a vehicle while even slightly intoxicated, you run the risk of hurting others. If you have a lapse in judgment, you will have to be held accountable for your crimes against society. Missouri won’t tolerate a DWI, and the penalties won’t be easy to stomach.
If your arrest was the first, you will be able to plead your case and hopefully avoid jail time. You will for sure lose your driving license for thirty days while you undergo a suspension process. You may only get reinstated after ninety days, but you will be eligible for a restricted driver’s permit after thirty days. The restricted license allows you to go to work and school as needed, but nowhere else.
Being caught the second time just proves to the judicial system that one has not learned his or her lesson. Penalties will be more severe, with higher fines and even a jail sentence looming over the head of the repeat offender. The second DUI will look poorly on one’s criminal history, making it hard to find a job among businesses that offer competitive wages.
A persistent offender is one that has racked up three or more DWI arrests. The minimum sentence is 10 days in jail, with the option to do 60 days of community service to instead be put on probation. You will also have to retake the written and physical driving test in order to get your license back due to losing your license for an extended period of time.
Classes are required to be taken if you have been convicted of a DUI in Missouri. Classes go through the basics of why driving with even one drink in your system can be fatal. In-class workshops and learning material will be worked through by a teacher for a minimum of two consecutive days- often spanning an entire weekend. It’s not pleasant by any means, but is required if you hope to get your license back in Missouri.
As an offender, you must file for SR-22 insurance. This type of insurance will recognize that you are a high risk driver. You will have to pay for a filing fee and also be subject to higher fees each month. Some insurance companies will not continue issuing insurance to those who get a DWI, while others will simply jack up the price each month to cover their risks in insuring your vehicle.
In Conclusion
Getting a DWI is not the end of the world; try not to feel depressed about getting one. Instead, use the experience as a reason to better yourself and speak out against the vile act among friends. It’s a dangerous act that can hurt your loved ones.
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