Driving in New York can be an adventure, whether you’re in Albany, New York City or enjoying the scenery of the Adirondack Mountains. Such a diverse landscape means that there is plenty of driving fun for all types of people, as long as that driving doesn’t include drinking alcohol. New York has some of the strictest drunk driving laws in the country, with ignition interlock requirements and other penalties for even a first-time DWI. New York is so serious about keeping the streets sober, the state doesn’t even have a policy for expunging a DWI, regardless of how long it has been. That means that once you get a DWI in New York, it will follow you for the rest of your life. It seems a lot easier to just stay sober when driving.
A DWI can affect your life, even beyond court costs, fines and an ignition interlock requirement. The immediate impact of a DWI fades over time, and just when you think you’ve got your life back together, that conviction rears its ugly head, again. Even 20 years later, you could lose out on a new job or promotion, be disqualified for a new place to live or even be passed over for college. Expungement of your New York DWI isn’t an option. Your option happens before you drink and drive, when you could find a safe ride home and not have to worry about any DWI problems.
Driving while intoxicated in New York is a serious crime, no matter if it is your first offense or if you’re looking at a felony DWI. By not expunging or sealing a DWI the state of New York is sending a strong message that there is no forgiveness for a person who risks the lives of others on the road.
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