Getting behind the wheel after having too many drinks can happen to anyone, resulting in a DUI arrest. While the charge is serious for any Texas driver who encounters it, you may suffer other serious consequences if you are in a profession like nursing.
What consequences do nurses suffer when charged with DUI?
As with any other driver facing DUI charges, nurses will have to face Texas state and local laws. Penalties for DUI convictions include jail sentences, fines, mandatory AA/NA meetings and community service. You may also have your vehicle impounded or have your license revoked. Costs can add up, too, as you may be responsible for various fees. The penalties when a DUI arrest results in a severe injury or death are even more severe.
However, as a nurse, you may face discipline from the state board of nursing. Although the state board may take some circumstances into consideration, they will evaluate many different factors as any prior record of DUIs, whether you are doing anything to prevent future infractions and if you pose a risk to public safety or yourself, to determine what disciplinary actions are necessary. Depending on the severity of the incident, your nursing license could be suspended, and you could lose your job.
Solid defense for your DUI charge
Not all DUI arrests end up as convictions. An aggressive defense against drunk driving charges can affect the outcome of your case. Many things can go wrong during a DUI arrest, including improperly administering breathalyzer tests, improper calibration of the machine and other factors that can skew blood alcohol levels.
Finding the right defense to fight a DUI charge could help you avoid a conviction entirely or allow you to plead guilty to a lesser charge. It can also help save your nursing career.