The Cost of Driving Under the Influence.
Not looking at the social stigma, personal embarrassment and potential for serious injury or death that comes with driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or both, the price alone can be enormous and should be given serious thought before anyone thinks of getting behind the wheel after drinking.
The average cost of a DUI in California varies greatly. The most common number I hear is $10,000 and some estimates are as high as $25,000 for the total cost of a DUI. I actually think the high end estimate is far too low. The range varies greatly due to different factors such as whether it’s your first time getting a DUI; Any injuries or damage that you may have caused; Do you have any prior convictions that may cause your case to become more complicated.
The minimum fine for a DUI conviction in California, is $390, but this number is incredibly misleading. State law requires courts to add taxes and fees, which are called penalty assessments. These assessments are used to fund different local and state programs and can easily balloon fines to over $2000.
If you have a prior DUI conviction(s) on your record, expect to pay a higher base fine, which in return means a higher penalty assessment. On the low end, a fine can be over $1800 to as high as $5000 for a multiple offender.
DMV approved DUI education programs can add to the cost, with the least expensive programs being about $400 but some can be as high as $3000. Legal, license reissuing, towing and impounding, bail, and booking fees, along with insurance premiums going up for at least three, all balloon the overall cost and can easily bring the overall figure to over $10,000.
If there are injuries or damage to anyone besides yourself, expect to also pay for victim restitution which can range widely from the amount of damage or injury caused to any objects or persons.
If this is your first DUI and you have a clean record, a judge can offer some leniency and lower the penalties, but still expect to pay for some of the fines.
The financial costs of a DUI are expensive, and it’s done purposely to deter people from driving under the influence and help save lives and limit property damage.
An experienced lawyer can help negotiate better deals and lower penalties, while also lessen any stress and anxiety that comes with a DUI charge.
Contact me:
Attorney Jeffrey Vallens: (818) 783-5700 or (805) 230-3651 email me at:
jv@4criminaldefense.com or visit my sites for more information:
www.4criminaldefense.com and www.westlakecriminaldefense.com
We proudly serve Los Angeles, Ventura and any other counties or federal districts where our clients need us.