There are numerous consequences that a DUI conviction can have. Listed are 4 examples that New Hampshire can inflict as consequences depending on the circumstances of the charge.
A DUI (driving under the influence) conviction can have serious consequences in the state of New Hampshire. These consequences can impact an individual’s personal and professional life, as well as their finances. In this article, we will dive into the various consequences of a DUI conviction in New Hampshire, including criminal penalties, license suspension and revocation, insurance consequences, and the long-term impact on an individual’s reputation and career prospects.
Criminal Penalties
In New Hampshire, a DUI is a criminal offense that is punishable by law. The penalties for a DUI conviction depend on the individual’s blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of the offense, as well as any prior DUIs on their record.
First Offense
For a first offense with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, an individual can face a fine of up to $500, imprisonment for up to a year, and/or community service. If the BAC is 0.16% or higher, or if there was a minor under the age of 16 in the vehicle, the penalties can be more severe, including a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to two years, and a mandatory substance abuse evaluation.
Second Offense
The penalties can include a fine of up to $750, imprisonment for up to two years, and a mandatory substance abuse evaluation. If the second offense occurs within two years of the first offense, the individual’s driver’s license will also be suspended for two years.
Third or Subsequent Offense
Penalties can include a fine of up to $1,500, imprisonment for up to three years, and a mandatory substance abuse evaluation. The individual’s driver’s license will also be suspended for three years.
License Suspension and Revocation
In addition to criminal penalties, a DUI conviction in New Hampshire can also result in the suspension or revocation of an individual’s driver’s license. The length of the suspension or revocation depends on the individual’s BAC at the time of the offense and any prior DUIs on their record.
First Offense
For a first offense with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, the individual’s driver’s license will be suspended for nine months. If the BAC is 0.16% or higher, or if there was a minor under the age of 16 in the vehicle, the suspension will be for 18 months.
Second Offense
The individual’s driver’s license will be suspended for two years. If the second offense occurs within two years of the first offense, the suspension will be for three years.
Third of Subsequent Offense
Individual’s driver’s license will be suspended for three years.
Insurance Consequences
A DUI conviction can also have significant consequences for an individual’s car insurance premiums. Insurance companies view DUI convictions as a high-risk behavior and may significantly increase the individual’s premiums as a result. In some cases, an insurance company may even choose to cancel the individual’s policy altogether.
In New Hampshire, drivers who have been convicted of a DUI are required to carry an SR-22 form, which is a certificate of financial responsibility. This form serves as proof that the individual has the minimum amount of car insurance required by law. The individual will need to maintain the SR-22 form for a period of three years, during which time their insurance premiums are likely to be significantly higher.
Long-Term Impact on Reputation and Career
A DUI conviction can have a long-term impact on an individual’s reputation and career prospects. It can be difficult for individuals with a DUI conviction to find employment, particularly in certain fields that require a clean driving record or a professional license, such as a commercial driver’s license or a medical license. Even if an individual is able to find employment, a DUI conviction may result in a loss of career advancement opportunities or a reduction in pay.
In addition to the potential impact on employment, a DUI conviction can also affect an individual’s personal relationships. Friends and family members may view the individual differently and may be less likely to trust them, especially if they were involved in an accident or caused harm to others while driving under the influence.
Conclusion
It is important for individuals who have been convicted of a DUI to be proactive in addressing the consequences of their actions and taking steps to prevent future DUIs. This may include seeking substance abuse treatment, participating in an alcohol education program, or installing an ignition interlock device (IID) on their vehicle. By taking responsibility and making positive changes, individuals
can work to rebuild their reputation and move forward in a positive direction.
