The Real Cost of a DUI: Time and Money
Drinking and driving is a serious offense that can have fatal or life-altering consequences. When an individual is charged with a DUI many thoughts and concerns may race through your mind. Most of which in the immediate moment could revolve around the potential risk to your personal freedoms. Aside from the stress and embarrassment of being charged with a DUI, there are several other DUI consequences and financial impacts on your life you will also need to consider. Click here to download our free infographic that outlines the real cost of a DUI, so you’ll know what to expect.
Lost Wages
It has been reported that individuals charged with a DUI will lose an average of $4400 in wages. A DUI charge can result in the suspension of your license and may restrict your ability to work. Depending on your field of work, a DUI may even cost you your job. If you are arrested for a DUI you may miss work time while in jail. You can expect to miss additional work time for scheduled court hearings, appointments with attorneys, and possible program requirements imposed by the court.
Cost of a DUI
How much does a DUI cost? In addition to possibly costing you your freedom and reputation, a first-time DUI offense can cost you anywhere from $7,772 to $10,172. These are staggering amounts that can lead to a significant financial burden on yourself and your family. First-time DUI offenders can expect to pay fines, penalties, restitution, testing fees, bail bonds fees, driving school, ignition interlock device fees, license reinstatement fees, and attorney fees.
Car Impound
In addition to the costs associated with fighting your DUI charge, you may also be responsible for the fees of towing and impounding your car. Once charged with a DUI your car may immediately be towed and impounded. In some areas, cars impounded as a result of a DUI are mandated to be held for up to 30 days, for which you are financially responsible. With different regulations depending on your jurisdiction, impound fees can cost you anywhere from $300 to $2000 and that is just the fee for impounding the car. You can tack on towing and storage fees to your final amount to get the car released back to you.
Insurance Premiums
If you are wondering how much does a DUI cost, you shouldn’t overlook the cost of increased insurance premiums. Insurance premiums are at risk of increasing any time an individual is involved in a motor vehicle accident. This is often regardless of fault. When an individual is convicted of a violation such as a DUI, increased premiums are a guarantee. A convicted DUI driver can see increases in their insurance premiums by up to 62%. In some cases of repeat offenses or a long history of violations, you may even become uninsurable. Car insurance companies can flat out deny coverage to individuals considered high risk. If you are unable to pay the increased insurance premiums or to gain insurance coverage you will be left with the inability to drive your own vehicle.
Time Spent Dealing with a DUI Case
The phrase “Time is money” has no better place than in a DUI case. On average, individuals will deal with a DUI case for up to 5 months. In addition to the costs mentioned above, you may also deal with the emotional turmoil of having your case looming for months from your arrest, jail time, court appearances, attorney consultations and appointments, driving school, mandated programs, etc. Your life will be significantly impacted and disrupted in more ways than one and have future implications beyond just your driving record.
These financial DUI consequences are not to be taken lightly. Many individuals are not prepared for the costs that arise from being charged with a DUI.
At RoadGuard Interlock, LLC we work with DUI offenders to get them back on the road when faced with mandated interlock device requirements. Contact us to discuss how we can help you get back in the driver’s seat.
*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard Interlock did not create nor develop and does not own any such third-party websites. RoadGuard Interlock does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in any such third-party website links. RoadGuard Interlock is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction, or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice.
