The state keeps track of driving violations. Speeding tickets and other infractions can influence what a driver pays for insurance. If a driver gets too many violations in a short amount of time, they might be at risk of losing their driving privileges entirely.
Certain types of traffic violations have more of an impact on a driver’s license and insurance rates than others. A driving under the influence (DUI) violation is not just a traffic offense, it is a crime. The courts can incarcerate defendants who plead guilty. They can also suspend their driver’s licenses and demand that they pay fines.
Records of a DUI show up during a criminal background check and when outside parties check the defendant’s driving record. Parties ranging from employers to insurance companies may check a motorist’s record with the state. How long do people have to worry about the state reporting a DUI on their driving record in Tennessee?
The record remains there indefinitely
Oftentimes, major criminal records are permanent. People may not be able to seal or expunge the record of prior misconduct. Similarly, people may not be able to eliminate the record of a DUI violation from their driving history.
Currently, Tennessee rules allow the state to permanently display information about a previous DUI conviction on an individual’s driving record. However, the record of their DUI should only affect their insurance rates for the next 10 years.
Of course, employers and other parties looking into their driving history and criminal record can find evidence of the impaired driving offense and could adjust their decisions based on the driver’s record. The only sure way to prevent a DUI from harming an individual’s future is to avoid a conviction with a robust criminal defense strategy. There are several ways for people accused of drunk driving to avoid a potential conviction.
Reviewing the situation that led to DUI charges can help people evaluate their options. Those who successfully defend against a DUI charge won’t have to worry about it showing up during a review of their driving record. They also won’t have to worry about their charges affecting their careers, opportunities or insurance costs.