Defendants that are charged with driving under the influence (DUI) are often so concerned about being sentenced to time behind bars that they forget about the other possible penalties of a conviction. The staggering cost of a DUI may take a lot of defendants by surprise. Here are some of the expenses you should expect:
Alcohol Education Classes
After a DUI conviction, defendants are typically ordered to complete a certain number of hours of alcohol education classes. These classes aren’t free, and the defendant will be expected to foot the bill. Depending on the number of hours that you are ordered to complete, alcohol education classes could cost between $150-$1,000.
Ignition Interlock Device Rental
DUI defendants will also be ordered to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicles after regaining their driving privileges. The cost of renting an ignition interlock device will vary depending on the length of time you are required to use one. It’s estimated that this will cost between $480-$1,460.
Fines
Defendants who are convicted of DUI may be ordered to pay fines as a penalty for breaking the law. First-time DUI offenders should expect to pay between $600-$1,000, but this number will be higher for repeat offenders.
Car Insurance Rates
Most DUI defendants are surprised to learn that their car insurance rates will increase drastically after a conviction. Why? DUI offenders are considered high-risk drivers, which means insurance companies will charge them more for coverage. Unfortunately, DUI offenders will remain in the “high-risk” category for up to five years after their conviction. Over this time period, DUI offenders should expect to pay thousands of dollars for their insurance coverage.
Other Minor Expenses
There are a number of other minor expenses that DUI defendants will have to pay. For example, defendants are required to pay a $26 court fee. Defendants will also have to contribute $15 to the brain injury fund, $33 to the victim compensation fund, and $78 to the victim assistance fund. DUI offenders are required to pay a chemical testing fee of around $90, which covers the cost of the blood, breath, or urine test that was performed after their arrest.
Avoid the costs of a DUI by working with a criminal defense attorney who can fight the charges that have been filed against you. If you have been charged with DUI, contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Reisch Law Firm today. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
