Most people understand the legal repercussions of a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction. However, do you know how big a dent a DUI conviction can leave in your wallet? Here are some of the financial expenditures you may have to occur as a result of a DUI conviction:
Hike in Insurance Rates
A DUI conviction definitely increases your insurance rates. According to some estimates, the increase will range from 30% to 200% depending on different factors. For example, your rate increase will be on the lower side if it is your first conviction and higher for subsequent convictions. The conviction will affect your rates for several years – in some cases as much as ten years.
The following is a simple calculation to put this into perspective. As of 2014, the average American paid $907.38 for car insurance per year (although there is a great variation by state). Assuming you currently pay that much, you may pay at least from $1179.6 per year after your DUI conviction.
Monetary Fine
Aside from an increase in insurance rates, a DUI conviction can also be punished by a monetary fine. Again, the size of your fine will depend on the specific circumstances of your conviction including state laws, whether it's your first DUI conviction, and any mitigating/aggravating circumstances. According to some sources, expect to pay anything from $500 to $2,000 for the fine.
Legal Defense Fees
This is one of the most obvious DUI-related expenses unless you want to plead guilty to all your charges, which isn't advisable. For example, you need to pay your lawyer's legal fees and expert witness' fees (if your case needs one). On average, people pay $2,400 for attorney fees and expenses; expect to pay more than that if your case proceeds to trial. An expert witness will set you back at least $1,000.
Loss of Income
Lastly, you may also experience loss of income, which varies a great deal depending on occupation and how long your case takes. DUI cases sometimes drag on for very long; don't be surprised if your case takes as much as a year. During this time you will be attending hearings, meeting with your lawyer and generally, and gathering evidence, among others. According to some statistics, the average self-employed American makes $24.62 per hour, so you can imagine how much you will lose if you are self-employed and have to spend dozens of hours on your DUI case.
The above figures may represent back-of-the-envelope calculations, but they show how much a DUI can cost you. Therefore, it's in your best financial interest to avoid drinking and driving at all times. If you do get charged with the crime, higher a DUI attorney to help you minimize the repercussions, financial or otherwise.
For more information or assistance regarding DUI cases, visit websites like http://anggelisandgordon.com.
