Posted on June 19, 2023 in DUI Consequences
Being convicted of a DUI, or driving under the influence, can come with many consequences and long-term effects that drivers may not be aware of. This includes the ability to rent a car. Rental car companies have the right to refuse to rent vehicles to drivers with DUIs on their records. Learn some of the current DUI policies that top rental car companies have in place to plan your next trip or rental.
There is no hard and fast rule about renting a car with a DUI on your record. Instead, vehicle rental companies have the right to pick and choose who rents their cars. For this reason, you will need to do some research on your rental car options before proceeding. Based on a recent search, below are several rental car companies and their stances on drivers with DUI arrests and convictions:
These policies may have changed since this information was acquired. In addition, different locations have varying rules, such as what is considered a “recent” DUI. Confirm a location’s policies by contacting their customer service line before attempting to rent a vehicle. Be sure to carefully read your rental car agreement and understand its terms and conditions. If you violate your rental contract, such as by lying about your driving history, you could face fines, fees and restrictions on renting a car in the future.
Rental car companies will always ask about your driving record. They need to ensure that the drivers that are using their vehicles do not present high risks to the company, such as a high crash risk. Unfortunately, this means you may face rejection if you have a DUI on your record. If you cannot find a rental car company that will lend you a vehicle because of your DUI, you may have other options.
Consider public transportation instead of a rental car, depending on why you need the vehicle. There may also be ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft that cater to your area. These services can provide cost-effective rides to local places, such as your job or the grocery store. You may also be able to borrow a vehicle from a friend or family member; however, if the conditions of your DUI conviction require you to use an ignition interlock device, you cannot drive a vehicle without one. This could lead to severe penalties, including jail time.
Of course, the best solution is to avoid a DUI conviction to begin with. Hiring a qualified DUI defense attorney may enable you to avoid a conviction. If it is too late for this option, discuss the possibility of having a DUI conviction expunged from your record with a lawyer. Expungement could give you a clean record, allowing you to rent a car and enjoy other benefits as if you never had a DUI. You may also qualify to have your record set aside. While this will not erase your record, it can help you qualify for a rental vehicle.
For more information about the potential effects of a DUI conviction on your life, or for legal assistance handling a DUI charge in Arizona, contact Rosenstein Law Group for a free case consultation. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights.
