What To Expect In Terms Of DUI Fines
Michalis 'BIG Mike' Kotzakolios


Defined Tag: DUI Fines.

Introduction

DUI fines are far more severe than one would imagine. DUI fines often include imprisonment, suspension of driving privileges, permanent criminal record, vehicle confiscation, special schooling, alcohol and/or drug counseling, monetary fines, high legal costs, significant rise in insurance premiums and a blemished reputation. Each state has its own laws specific to persons convicted with driving while intoxicated. Globally also, drunk driving is the most common offense.

The laws in the U.S. applicable to drunk driving are particularly stern and exceedingly complex as to the trials, evidence, DUI fines and license suspensions.

First-time drunk driving offenders can expect to incur DUI fines ranging from $250 to $2500 plus surcharges, and possibly jail time. Repeat DUI offenders' or felony DUI will incur harsher DUI fines up to $150,000 plus surcharges, and will most likely be sentenced to a number of days in prison. DUI fines will be even harsher if the offender was involved in an accident in which someone else was seriously hurt or killed.

DUI Penalties

Compulsory alcohol education and treatment - This category of DUI fines for persons convicted of drunk driving includes compulsory attendance at DUI prevention programs, and assessment of possible alcohol addiction problems. Such meetings are frequently made conditions of a suspended sentence or probation, meaning that the defendant can avoid prison and payment of heavy DUI fines if the defendant completes involvement in the meetings.

Vehicle Confiscation - Vehicle confiscation fines permit a motor vehicle section or law enforcement agency to seize a DUI defendant's vehicle, either permanently or temporarily. Such DUI fines typically apply only to repeat defendant's, and often the return of the vehicle requires payment of fines and considerable legislative costs.

Ignition Interlock - A vehicle ignition interlock breath-testing device measures a motor vehicle operator's Blood Alcohol Concentration, and will avoid operation of the vehicle if more than a minimum quantity of alcohol is identified (i.e. BAC level of .02). DUI defendants will generally be required to pay the costs of installation, rental, and maintenance of an ignition interlock device.

Criminal Penalties- Potential criminal penalties include prison, DUI fines, and license suspension for at least 90 days, ignition interlock on your motor vehicle, an alcohol evaluation and treatment, attendance of a DUI victim's panel and high-risk insurance.

Civil Penalties - Civil penalties forced by the state Department of Licensing consist of license suspension or revocation and a requirement for SR 22 high-risk insurance.

High Risk Insurance (SR-22) - If the Department of Licensing holds up your license, you will be required to carry SR-22 high-risk insurance for the 3 years after your license is restored. Patrons are regularly anxious about how much their rates will go up, and the answer depends on your driving record. It is essential to shop around in order to hit upon the best rate.

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