DUI – How much will it cost me?

There are several costs associated with both a DUI arrest and a DUI conviction. Here is a list of some of the common expenses associated with a DUI:

Higher insurance premiums– If you’re convicted of a drunk driving, your auto insurance rates will go up. This is because the insurance company classifies you as a much higher risk. Additional effort may also be required on the part of your insurance company to continually confirm coverage to the state. The high insurance premiums usually last for several years.

driver training– Many states require you to report a DUI conviction and complete a multi-hour driver education course.

alcohol and drug counseling– If you are convicted of drunk driving, you may need to enroll in and complete an alcohol and drug education course. The cost of the course depends on your history of drug and alcohol use and can run into several thousand dollars.

interlock device– Some states require you to put a device in your vehicle to check your breath alcohol level before you can drive if you are convicted. You are responsible for the cost of installing this equipment and for periodic system inspections.

court costs and fines– If you are convicted of a DUI, you will have to pay a hefty fine to the court. This fine can run into the thousands of dollars depending on the state you are in and the type of Drunk driving you are charged with.

administrative hearings– If your driver’s license was suspended in some states prior to your DUI process, you may request an administrative hearing to challenge or contest the suspension. You are responsible for filing fees and other costs associated with this hearing.

royalties– If you are convicted of drunk driving and your driver’s license is suspended, you may be required to pay a fee to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for a provisional license or to have your license reinstated.

legal fees – If you want to challenge your DUI arrest in court and avoid most penalties associated with a DUI arrest, consider hiring a DUI defense attorney. Your attorney’s fee is part of the cost of a DUI arrest.

wrecker bill– After a DUI arrest, your car will be towed by the police. You must pay the demolition bill and any overnight storage costs.

Thanks to James Snell | #DUI #cost