When Louisiana residents make the decision to drive under the influence, they put themselves and others in harm’s way. However, they may not realize that they also face a long list of potential financial issues. There are several short-term and long-term costs associated with a DUI conviction.
Paying bail
When you get charged with DUI, you will probably get taken to the local county jail. Even if you don’t get convicted later on, you are responsible for bail at the time of your arrest. Based on national averages, bail can cost anywhere from $100 to $2,500.
Impound fees
Unless you have a sober passenger whom the police let take your car from the scene of your arrest, your car will get towed and impounded. You should estimate that these charges will cost between $100 and $1,200 depending on the towing service that responds, the duration of your car’s impounding and other factors.
Paying fines
Every state in the nation requires drivers convicted of a DUI to pay fines. While most first-time offenders don’t face significant jail time, the fines can get expensive. First-time DUI offenders should expect to pay anywhere between $150 and $1,800 in fines.
Additional fees
Court costs don’t end with paying bail and paying fines. Instead, DUI offenders typically must pay for the time they spend in jail, sentencing fees, criminal defense fees and probation fees. These charges typically cost between $300 and $1,700.
Insurance costs
Your insurance company is going to raise your premiums after you’re convicted of driving under the influence. Just because you don’t see an increase in your monthly costs on your next bill, don’t assume that they’re not going to charge you more. Most companies wait until the policy renewal date to implement the new, higher rate.
DUI convictions are expensive. The obvious and best way to avoid one is to not get behind the wheel after you have been drinking.
