DUI Records

Having a DUI record impacts all aspects of a person's life. You not only have a record that will follow you but it is draining financially, emotionally and in your professional life as well. There are several different terms that all refer to drunk driving - some examples are DUI, OWI, OVI, DWI, OVUII, OUI, OUIL, DWUI, etc. The acronyms will vary dependant on the state where the crime is committed. There is a myth that a DUI conviction will automatically be removed after seven years, this is not correct. The convictions from a DUI will appear on your record indefinitely until you work on having it expunged.

Can you remove a DUI from your record?
The process to get your DUI conviction removed once you have been charged would be to talk with your attorney to see if an appeal is possible. It will clear your record to overturn a conviction, although do not count on this option because it rarely occurs.

If overturning a conviction is not an option make sure to find out how long you have to wait to clear your charges. Every state is different and some do allow for your record to be expunged. Once the allotted time has past, you can start the process to have your record expunged. You may want to use your attorney or a professional legal expert.

Will a DUI show up on a background check?
You will want to get copies of both your Court and Department of Motor Vehicles records. This will give you a clear understanding of what someone will see if they do a background check on you. It is important to get your DUI conviction cleared as soon as you can. It can affect your ability to rent, obtain certain jobs and it even goes as far as limitations on educational loans.

DUI's are listed on a National Driving Registry (NDR) by the U.S. Department of Transportation for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Under the Provisions of the Privacy Act you are able to request a file search to see if you are listed on the National Driving Registry. You can call (202)366-4800 for additional information.

SR-22 Insurance
Statistically Mothers against Drunk Driving (MADD) reports show thirty percent of all mid week fatal accidents were alcohol-related and for weekends the statistic rose to fifty one percent. Because of this Drunk Drivers are considered the most hazardous to insure. This pretty much guarantees your insurance rates will increase as well. Police Officers actually have the right to suspend or cancel your driver's license at the scene of an accident and the only way to get it reinstated is to provide proof of SR-22 Insurance from your insurance company.

Imposing SR-22 insurance ensures the insurance companies are able to find out about a new driving under the influence traffic violation. It also makes sure if you are convicted of a DUI that you maintain proper insurance coverage without any lapses. The Insurance companies are required to report to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if there is a lapse in coverage and then the DMV will suspend your license. Having SR-22 is usually required for three years. It will be a costly expense, but it is imperative to have so you can legally get back on the road and continue with your day to day commute to enable you to support your lifestyle.