The Real Costs of a DUI: More Than Just a Fine

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a dangerous mistake and one that could cost you money, your job, your driver’s license, and even your life. No matter how safe it feels to drive after a few drinks at the bar, it is never a good idea to get behind the wheel if you have been drinking, smoking marijuana, or taking other drugs.

Below we look at the real costs of a DUI, and how you can get help from an expert attorney if you have been involved in a car accident with a drunk driver.

DUI Fines

Drunk driving will result in an immediate fine if you are pulled over by the cops. For a first offense, a DUI could cost anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000. A second offense could cost a lot more and may lead to the loss of your driver’s license.

Other DUI Costs

A DUI doesn’t just stop at a fine. Depending on how over the limit you were and whether anyone was injured due to negligent driving, DUI drivers could face costs in court fees, penalties, and license reinstatement fees.

These costs can soon rack up, meaning it could take you years to fully pay back the costs of a DUI, all because of one mistake.

Driver’s License Suspension

In most US states, a driver’s license can be taken by police at the scene, even on a first offense. A driver’s license suspension can last anywhere from a few months to the rest of your life. This will depend on a number of factors, such as how many other driving offenses you have committed.

Being unable to drive can have a major impact on your life, as you can no longer rely on a vehicle to get from A to B. This could mean you are unable to collect your children from school, drive to work, or get the groceries.

Increased Insurance Costs

After a DUI, your auto insurance costs can increase by hundreds of dollars, possibly making it unaffordable for you and your family. You can expect this increased cost to last a good few years, depending on whether or not you were involved in an accident.

Imprisonment

Driving under the influence could result in jail time, especially if you were involved in a crash and someone else was hurt or died. This conviction will also be on your criminal record, making it harder to get jobs in the future. If your job involves driving, you may be fired and unable to continue your career.

Putting Others at Risk

As soon as you start driving under the influence, you are putting yourself and others at risk. This sort of reckless behavior is known as negligence. Someone could be seriously injured, traumatized, and possibly die at the hands of a drunk driver, meaning it is never okay to get behind the wheel after drinking. As your reactions are slower, you are increasing the risk of vehicle and motorcycle accidents.

A DUI has many implications for your life and the lives of others. From ongoing costs to possible jail time, a DUI can have long-lasting effects on everyone involved. If you have been involved in a car accident caused by a driver who was driving under the influence, speak to Mama Justice MW Law Firm today.

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