A driver who is convicted of certain traffic or criminal violations may be designated a “habitual offender” by the Division of Motor Vehicles. Being put on “habitual offender” status may result in losing one’s license for up to four (4) additional years. Anyone charged with DWI must carefully consider the possibility of being certified as a Habitual Offender.
The list of convictions that may trigger habitual offender certification is long, and it includes several drunk-driving-related convictions. These include driving under the influence of drugs or liquor (DUI) and aggravated driving while intoxicated (DWI), as well as several offenses that might be connected to a DUI/DWI in certain cases, such as reckless driving. If a driver is convicted of at least three of these offenses, he or she may be certified a “habitual offender.”
Several less-serious convictions can also result in a habitual offender designation if a driver receives twelve or more convictions for them. While these convictions may apply to drivers who are sober, they may also apply in certain DWI cases, depending on the facts. These convictions include illegally crossing solid lines on highways, speeding, not meeting New Hampshire license requirements, and failing to provide an SR-22 proof of insurance when required. An SR-22 is frequently required after a DUI conviction, so drivers who have been convicted of one of these offenses are at risk of another conviction if they don’t provide the required SR-22.
Even a single DUI conviction or related conviction can have serious consequences. If you’re facing drunk driving charges in New Hampshire, the experienced NH DUI attorneys at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. can build an aggressive defense that fights for your rights. Call us today at (888) 332-5855 for a free and confidential consultation by phone. You may also visit our Tenn And Tenn, P.A. Facebook page for valuable information and topics of interest.