Committing a crime or even being charged can be expensive. The costs of a conviction almost always outweigh the perceived benefits. Some may have no intent to commit a crime but decide to get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol. However, a DUI can have long-lasting personal and financial consequences.
The costs of an impaired driving arrest depend on factors like blood alcohol content (BAC) and prior offenses. You may start facing the financial impact as soon as the police stop you.
Costs of a DUI
Pennsylvania imposes various penalties for DUI, ranging from fines to mandatory treatment and evaluation. Monetary sanctions aren’t the only penalties that can impact your wallet. Services you’ll need and programs you must sign up for aren’t free.
Expenses associated with DUI include and generally range from:
- Traffic fines: $300-$10,000 depending on BAC and prior offenses
- Alcohol evaluation: $35-$100
- Towing vehicle: $175-$500
- Impound: $75-$175 per day
- Legal fees: $2,000-$8,000 or more
- Accelerated rehabilitative disposition program: $100-$1,800
- Education and treatment: $100-$1,000 or more
- Ignition interlock device: $900-$1,300 for the device and $75-$150 for installation
- License restoration: $76 for non-commercial and $184 for commercial licenses
- Insurance premiums: increase of about $1,000 a year or risk policy cancellation
Other expenses may arise. These are issues that many don’t consider, such as:
- Personal costs: An arrest or jail sentence can lead to lost income and job opportunities. A criminal record can also limit future employment and housing options.
- Emotional and social costs: Involvement in the criminal justice system can bring mental health problems and strain relationships.
- Societal costs: Criminal cases can impact the state budget by the hours spent prosecuting crimes, potential medical expenses and lost productivity.
Improving decision-making skills or addressing underlying problems that pose DUI risks may be challenging. But it’s worth it to avoid financial stress and other negative consequences.
If you’re facing a DUI arrest or charge, consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney is advisable. They can help protect your rights, ensure you meet all legal requirements and avoid paying excessive penalties.
