DUI Conviction—How to Tell Family and Friends

If you’ve gotten a DUI conviction then you already know how difficult it is to discuss. It can feel embarrassing and shameful, but there are ways to have an open, honest conversation about the issue.

There are significant consequences for people who drink and then drive a vehicle. The DUI laws in Washington State have very strict rules governing DUIs which can result in a suspended or revoked license. When that happens, it becomes necessary to tell people, including employers about the situation.

Regardless of what happened, it is an individual choice to talk about the DUI charge. He or she has the right to share or not share, and to do it in a way that brings less personal discomfort. The best approach is to have an open conversation with people who need to know and who will offer support at this stressful time.

If the charge is still in dispute, and there is a DUI attorney involved, he or she may have some input on when and how much to share. There could be legal issues related to the case that will impact the conversations.

The employer may be one of the most important people to tell about the DUI charges. If driving is part of the job responsibilities, then a full disclosure is in everyone’s best interests. The employer will feel reassured by knowing his employee has been honest and together they can work to get an exemption for driving on the job. In Washington, people with a DUI conviction can apply to drive under a special license if they have an ignition interlock device installed in their car. And, there are papers an employer can file to bypass the need for such a device on work vehicles. By offering to assist the employer with this, the individual is showing a commitment to the job and his boss.

An ignition interlock device can help the individual with a suspended or revoked license quickly return to a more normal routine. And, it lessens the impact of the DUI charge; an emotional time for most individuals and their families. The device makes life a little less inconvenient, but the stigma and emotional impact remain. Hopefully family and close friends will offer support during this period.

No one wants to deal with a DUI charge—it complicates daily activities, hurts driving records and results in increased insurance premiums. Once a license has been revoked or suspended, there is nothing to do other than adjust to the new situation as quickly as possible. The ignition interlock device is a practical tool for returning to work and getting out and about. The device is monitored by the state and used in determining the return of a driver’s license so it’s crucial to work with a reputable dealer of such devices. Choose a company that offers 24 hour customer service and roadside assistance. And, make sure you’ve working with people who understand the emotional impact of a DUI conviction.

Check out Interlock NorthWest; they offer 24/7 customer support and resources, and have a online support forum for topics and issues related to DUIs. They’ll be glad to talk to you about their services.