Getting a DWI is a serious offense, and it can be tough to get back on the road. It can be difficult for drivers to legally get back on the road, but emotionally as well.
How to Start Driving Again After A DWI
For many, the fear or obstacles are so great that getting back on the road is a severe struggle. Here are some tips to help you start driving again after a DWI.
Know What Needs to Be Done
It can be very difficult to figure out what needs to be done if your license is suspended or revoked as a result of your DWI. Even though the judge issues a sentence, oftentimes the process and details are left out and you are left without an explanation of the tasks you need to undertake to get your license back. Make sure you ask if you will need to undergo an evaluation, check on all of your fines, and find out if you need to get a device installed on your car. Only after you complete all of the steps will you be allowed to legally drive again.
Talk About It
If you haven’t had your license for a while, or even if you are just nervous to drink and drive again, it can be scary to get back on the road. Make sure you talk to someone you can trust. This could be a friend or family member, or a therapist.
Be Proactive
Don’t let yourself start to feel like things are beyond your control. Talk to your attorney, or call the State to find out the status of your situation. Many times it is easy to become complacent, but you must remember that no one is specifically looking at your file post-DWI when it comes to the state. You and your lawyer can come up with a proactive plan to offset this, and ensure you get things moving as quickly as possible.
Take it Slow
Once you are back on the road, stay within your comfort zone for a while. Don’t try to prove anything or push yourself too far too fast. Doing so could be emotionally traumatic, or even dangerous if you think you may drink and drive again.
Explore Your Options
Most of the time, people make the mistake of driving while intoxicated because they don’t think of the many other options in the moment. Make sure you know and have handy your options before you go drinking. Save local cab numbers to your phone, or use an app like Lyft or Uber. If you’re in a more rural area, find out who in your network of friends could help in an emergency.
If you plan ahead and know your options, you should have a safe transition back on the road after your DWI. Do you have questions about your post-DWI situation? Reach out to our office and someone will be happy to help.
Sources: https://www.lifesafer.com/devices/what-is-an-interlock/
