Cost of a DUI

Getting a DUI is obviously a horrible idea. What you might not realize, though, is how expensive it is, too. It varies from situation to situation and state to state, but you can guarantee it will take a big chunk out of your paycheck. According to people who know (lawyers, police and Auto clubs), the average costs (not including any costs for lost pay, personal injuries, medical costs, vehicle damage or additional penalties for causing a crash while drinking) for a first offense drunken-driving case are:

• Minimum fine: $ 390
• Penalty Assessment: $ 666
• State Restitution Fund: $ 100
• Alcohol-Abuse Education Fund: $ 50
• Blood or Breath-Testing Fee: $ 37
• Jail Cite-and-Release Fee: $ 10
• Driving/Alcohol-Awareness School: $ 375 (16 weeks minimum)
• License Reissue Fee: $ 100
• Attorney Fees (average): $ 2,500
• Auto Insurance Increase: $ 3,600 - $6,600
  (The Auto Club estimates $2,200 a year for 3 years)
  
  
• Total $7,828 - $10,828 ¹

Resources:

1. Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Drinking and Driving is Very, Very Expensive!. Retrieved on February 1, 2009 from the World Wide Web: http://www.maddorangecounty.org/cost.htm

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