People who are accused of drunk driving face significant pressure. There are many different consequences and legal penalties associated with a DUI, whether you are accused of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You could face jail time. You will lose your license and could have ignition interlock installed in your vehicle. And carrying criminal history for many years after the charge could hamper your ability to find a new place to live or to get a job.
There are serious legal repercussions to a DUI charge, but just as consequential are the financial penalties associated with a DUI. These fiscal consequences often aren’t fully considered, or even known. So let’s talk about some of the financial issues that can come with a DUI.
After being pulled over by an officer, your car will be towed and impounded. Both of those things can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. After that, you will be detained and will have a to post bail. Again, that will cost a pretty penny. And then of course there are all the little fees, fines, and penalties associated with every step of the legal process: jail time, sentencing, court appearances, license reinstatement, and many other matters will hurt your wallet.
As if all of this wasn’t enough, getting a DUI will lead to your insurance rates ballooning and this could last for years and years.
The point of all of this is simple: you need to defend yourself after a DUI charge to prevent the charge from sticking or doing extensive damage to your reputation — and your wallet.
Source: BACtrack, “The High Cost of a DUI,” Accessed Dec. 19, 2017
