Getting a Handle on a Drinking Problem After a DUI

Driving under the influence (a DUI) is a serious criminal offense that can lead to hefty fines, jail time, and a criminalrecord. It can affect your career if the position requires a clean record too. Also, having to explain it at every job interview or bank application is not desirable and it'll get tiresome in a hurry if it puts obstacles in the way. If you've recently been stopped for a DUI, here is how to get a handle on the drinking problem.

Take the Legal Consequences Seriously

It's important to get ahead of the legal situation with a DUI as quickly as possible. Losing the ability to drive will be restrictive as a parent. You won't be able to easily drop the kids off at school or take them to daycare. Needing to take public transport or get an Uber will either slow you down or cost more than it once did.

To protect against these possibilities, a legal defense attorney that has dealt with alcohol-related issues needs to be your first port of call. They can provide advice on what to do and how best to approach it. Not doing so may lead to a worse outcome that can affect future employment possibilities. To get an idea of what a DUI lawyer can do, check out campolidefense.com.

Treat the DUI as Rock Bottom

It doesn't require getting into an auto collision to consider it rock bottom. Being stopped by the police and put through a breathalyzer test is embarrassing enough. If you've had to tell your employer what's happened, that won't look good either. Driving under the influence is never okay. It puts yourself, your passengers, other drivers and pedestrians at risk. It's hugely irresponsible, so take it seriously. Acknowledge that you have a drinking problem and that it's out of control.

Get Help with the Resources at Your Disposal

There are plenty of resources that can help you to quit drinking, smoking, and other bad habits, whether they're online or as part of a support group. Even if you don't normally read much, you could even give self-help books a try. They have the potential to change your life for the better, and you'll be going at your own pace.

Consider Rehab

If you feel that your addictions are strong and your drinking is considerable, then it may be necessary to go into rehab. Thismay also look good if you end up going to court. See if you can get your partner to take care of the kids. If you don't have an active partner, then maybe your parents can act as temporary caregivers while you're taking care of your problems? If they've been concerned about the worsening state of your life, they could be all too willing to help.

If you've been caught driving under the influence, it's important to get a handle on the drinking problem. Don't ignore it or dismiss it. A DUI is serious, and you never want to get into that situation again.