The ramifications of drunk driving charges can be significant for accused drivers facing DUI charges. Accused drivers may face the threat of significant negative impacts to their personal and professional lives as a result of DUI charges which is why they should understand criminal defense options that may be available to them.
The potential penalties and consequences of DUI charges
The potential penalties, consequences and costs of drunk driving charges can include:
- A traffic fine ranging from $300 to $10,000, depending on the accused driver’s blood alcohol content level and the number of offenses they have;
- The cost of towing the accused driver’s vehicle which is a $50 flat fee plus the cost of mileage;
- Impound fees which can be $75 to $175 a day;
- Legal fees which can range from $2,000 to $8,000 and upward;
- Cost of an alcohol evaluation from $35 to $100;
- Cost of alcohol education and treatment ranging from $100 to $1,000 or greater;
- Cost of license restoration which is $76 for a non-commercial license and $184 for a commercial license;
- Increased insurance premium cost which will be cancelled if not paid; and
- The cost of accelerated rehabilitative disposition for first-time offenders.
Defending against DUI charges
A DUI arrest can result in financial impacts for the accused driver and may also result in the loss of freedom and jail time. Accused drivers may also experience lost wages and may face potential job loss as one of the possible ramifications of drunk driving charges. In addition, DUI charges can potentially impact the accused driver’s attempts to secure employment in the future. A strong criminal defense strategy may be able to help accused drivers mitigate the potential penalties and consequences associated with drunk driving charges and developing one is a process they should be familiar with.