Last night, police officers responded to two separate vehicle collisions, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
In the first DUI collision, the driver was under the influence of marijuana (yes, it’s still illegal and unsafe to drive high).
A short time later, another driver crashed and was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. That driver also had a prior DUI conviction.
Both DUI drivers were arrested.
The HBPD can’t stress this enough: driving impaired is dangerous, irresponsible, and can change lives in an instant. Beyond the risk of injury or death, a DUI can cost you up to $13,500 in fines and fees.
Life is a precious gift. Do yourself (and everyone else on the road) a favor:
- Use a ride-share
- Designate a sober driver
- Make a plan before you party
Editor’s Note – If you feel buzzed you are high! If you are out drinking be sure to drink a glass of water after every alcoholic beverage and eat food when drinking. It is cheaper to take an UBER than pay for the costs associated with a DUI!
Here’s a summary of the impact of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in California on both insurance and employment:
Impact on Car Insurance
- Rate Increase
A DUI can cause your car insurance premiums to more than double. In California, the average increase is around 164%, which is much higher than the national average. - High-Risk Driver Status
You’ll be labeled a high-risk driver, which may limit your access to standard insurance plans and discounts. - SR-22 Requirement
You’ll likely need to file an SR-22 form with the DMV to prove you have the minimum required liability coverage. This is necessary to reinstate your license after a suspension. - Long-Term Consequences
The DUI stays on your driving record for 10 years, affecting your insurance rates throughout that time.
Impact on Employment
- Job Termination Risk
California is an at-will employment state, so employers can legally terminate you for a DUI, especially if it affects your ability to perform your job. - Driving-Related Roles
If your job involves driving, a DUI can lead to immediate termination due to:- License suspension
- Inability to be insured by the company
- Violation of company policies
- Professional Licenses
A DUI may trigger disciplinary action from licensing boards (e.g., for lawyers, doctors, teachers, real estate agents), which can result in suspension or revocation of your license. - Hiring Challenges
While California law limits when employers can ask about criminal history, they can still run background checks after a job offer and withdraw it based on a DUI. - Disability Considerations
Alcoholism may be considered a disability under California law, but this doesn’t protect against termination if the DUI affects your job performance.