Having a criminal record could significantly impact the aftermath of a car accident. Whether you face a civil lawsuit or criminal charges related to the accident, understanding how your history may affect your situation is paramount to addressing potential complications.
How your criminal record can influence legal perception
A criminal record may affect how others perceive you during legal proceedings. Lawyers, judges and even insurance companies may wrongly assume you are at fault because of your past behavior. Unfortunately, people sometimes use a person’s history to form biases. This could influence decisions – from how they handle your case to the final verdict.
Criminal charges related to the accident
If a car accident leads to an arrest and criminal charges —such as reckless driving or driving under the influence (DUI) —authorities may likely consider your criminal history when determining the next course of action. For example, if you have previous convictions for reckless driving or DUI, they may view any new charges as a pattern of behavior. This could result in more intense scrutiny and harsher penalties, including higher fines or longer sentences.
What you can do to minimize the impact
If you have a criminal record and face a car accident lawsuit or related charges, you may work with an experienced attorney. Your lawyer will navigate the complexities of your case and protect your rights.
Ultimately, knowing how the impact of your criminal record can affect you can help you avoid surprises and prepare you, just in case you get involved in a car accident.
