How Much Will a DUI Really Cost You?
Did you know that getting a DUI involves much more than just spending a night in jail and losing your driver’s license? It’s true- DUI consequences can ruin your life, even if you weren’t involved in a motor vehicle accident.
A single DUI conviction can cost tens of thousands of dollars in fines and legal fees. Not to mention, some hidden costs that you may not recognize until it’s too late.
If you’d like to know more about the costs associated with DUI arrests and convictions, keep reading. We have all the information you need and more right here.
What Is a DUI?
In every state, it’s illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If an officer of the law suspects that you may be driving under the influence, they will pull you over, and possibly perform a field sobriety test. If they suspect that you are driving under the influence, they will arrest you.
DUI Consequences: What Happens After You’re Charged with a DUI?
After you are arrested under the suspicion of operating under the influence, you will be taken to the nearest jail or police station. They will take your mugshot and fingerprints.
You will be given a summons or ticket that tells you when to appear in court. In some states, you can then be released if someone pays your bail and drives you home, but in other states, this is now illegal.
What happens next depends on your court sentencing. If you are guilty, you will lose your driver’s license, spend some time in jail, pay a fine, go to mandatory classes, and complete any terms of your probation necessary. This sentencing can also cause other DUI conviction consequences, like affecting your employment status.
The Price of a DUI
Did you know that a single DWI conviction can cost up to $30,000? Although the lower average is closer to $10,000, depending on where you live and the nature of your crime, costs can skyrocket quickly. Let’s break it down.
Penalties and Fines: $300- $3,000
For a first time offender, you can count on a fine of somewhere from around $300 to $1,000. But if you’ve received a DUI before, it’s more likely to be three times that amount.
Towing: $100- $800
Depending on what company towed and is storing your vehicle, you could be looking at a charge of almost $1,000.
Treatment Program: $700
In many states, DUI offenders are required to enroll in a treatment program. This can cost around $700.
Court Fees: $800
Depending on the length of your court case, you will be charged a varying amount for the paperwork processing fees and other court fees.
Lawyer Fees: $2,500
Although a great lawyer can help you navigate the best possible outcome of a DUI, this comes at a high cost.
Restitution: $500
Some states require that offenders pay into a restitution fund to compensate victims. This fee can be around $500.
Insurance Costs: $2,500 +
If your car insurance company sees that you’re a high-risk client, your insurance premium will skyrocket for a number of years.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, DUI consequences and the costs associated with them can be truly life-altering. From court costs to insurance premiums to DUI attorney fees, the grand total can be truly shocking.
The best form of defense if you or someone you love is convicted of a DUI is to arm yourself with knowledge. Share the information above to spread awareness about the consequences of a DUI conviction.
Have any questions or comments? Feel free to contact us!