Bad driving can result in a wide range of immediate negative consequences, from penalties of a traffic citation, to jail time, or even injury or death. However, there are some other often overlooked consequences that can create problems for your future. These factors could also deter your teenage drivers from participating in bad driving behaviors...
- Increased Auto Insurance Rates - Even the most minor moving violations can cause your insurance rates to jump as much as 20%! A DUI can cause a 300% increase... This increase will most likely last for years.
- License Suspension - Some more serious offenses could cause your license to be suspended, which impairs your freedom and ability to get to school or work.
- Criminal Record - More serious traffic violations like DUI's or street racing can lead to an arrest. An arrest is a permanent blemish on your record, that hard to shake.
- Professional Challenges - Some driving infractions will prevent you from certain types of jobs. Any job that involves driving will require a background check on your record and serious infractions will immediately exclude you as a candidate. Not to mention the difficulties getting to work without the legal right to drive.
- Education - Certain colleges and universities as well as law school and medical school programs will not accept anyone who has a DUI on their record.
- Residential Challenges - Many landlords or leasing companies require background checks prior to renting to tenants. If you have something on your record you may not be able to rent property.
- Civil Suits - If you cause harm to another driver, not only are you legally responsible but you are also financially responsible. Civil suits filed against you could cost you a lot of money.
Make sure to have a conversation with your teenage driver about the dangers of bad or distracted driving!