The Extreme Cost of Drunk Driving
June 9th, 2015 by Eli P
The Extreme Cost of Drunk Driving?
Would you pay $5,000 for a beer?
Of course not. But if you have one too many drinks before getting behind the wheel, it could end up costing you a lot more. If fact, depending on the state you live in, a first offense DUI can easily set you back $12,000 or more.
Drunk driving arrests involve a variety of expenses, such as fines, attorney fees, and license reclamation costs. These costs vary from state to state, but rest assured they will put a serious dent in your bank account no matter where you live.
The fine for drunk driving typically costs between $250 and $1,500. Lawyer fees average around $2,000 if you don’t go to trial. Take your case to trial and that figure can easily jump to $5,000. So right off the bat you’re looking at up to $6,500 for one serious lapse in judgment. You also have to contend with the following costs:
License reinstatement. Get caught driving drunk and you have to pay to get your license back. This can range from $250 to $500.
Substance abuse counseling or classes. Although not always required, these classes can cost up to $500.
Ignition interlock system. These systems require an installation fee and monthly rental fees. Depending on how long you have to use the device, the fees can add up to several hundred dollars.
Higher insurance premiums. Insurance companies do not like drunk drivers. Expect to pay up to $1,500 more per year for your car insurance, for at least three years.
Loss of income. Resolving a drunk driving arrest takes time. Add up the jail time, possible community service, court appearances, and drug abuse counseling appointments and you can easily lose several weeks of w
Keep in mind that these expenses are for a first drunk driving offense. Become a repeat offender and the costs will soar.
Perhaps the biggest cost of all is the damage to your reputation. A drunk driving incident on your record never goes away. It can make it difficult to find employment. And friends and family will always know you as a convicted drunk driver.
Fix Auto believes that’s a hefty price to pay for a couple of beers and it’s better to be safe than sorry. So play it safe and use a designated driver or call a cab. Your bank account and the other drivers on the road will be glad you did.
