If you have ever questioned using a taxi, Uber, or Lyft, or asking someone to be a designated driver when you go out drinking, you need to be aware of the costs associated with a DUI. You also need to be aware of these costs if you enjoy medical or recreational marijuana, as you can be charged with impaired driving.
A recent study by Arrive Alive has determined that the out-of-pocket expenses drivers can face when they are arrested and charged with a DUI and convicted of the offence, either by summary conviction or indictment, could be as much as $23,000.
Arrive Alive shared their findings with the Toronto police and various DUI criminal defence lawyers to determine if their numbers were accurate. The $23,000 cost was fairly accurate. However, it is important to remember there are different types of DUI offences and circumstances that could easily result in slightly lower or much higher total costs upon conviction. To understand more about how convictions can vary, you might want to read about suspended sentences and what you should know.
To give you a good idea of what a night out on the town could cost if you use marijuana or drink and drive, here are the minimum costs a first-time convicted person can face for impaired driving:
- A $1,000 minimum fine. The find could be as much as $2,000 depending on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
- A $281 license reinstatement fee.
- A $1,500 interlock device installation and usage fee.
- A $5,000 to $8,000 increase in car insurance for three to five years.
- A $634 Back on Track program fee.
- Court costs that can range from $2,000 to as much as $10,000.
It is worth mentioning that there are other consequences you could face, such as varying periods of imprisonment, varying duration of license suspension, vehicle impoundment fees, and the offence recorded on your criminal record. For more on legal repercussions and how to navigate them, understanding the role of a sexual offence solicitor might be useful.
Furthermore, the costs associated with a DUI increase for repeat offenders, who face far greater consequences if convicted and found guilty. The message you should take away from this is that it is better to spend the money on a taxi, Lyft, Uber, or public transit, or have a designated driver, rather than risk a DUI conviction.
What You Need to Hire a DUI Lawyer
As with other criminal offences, you only have one opportunity to fight your charges. It is better to retain the services of an experienced DUI lawyer than to risk the outcome by representing yourself. Additionally, if you are charged with “Over 80,” refuse to give a sample, cause an accident, or flee the scene, you could face even more serious criminal charges. For those facing such situations, it might be beneficial to read about specialist fraud solicitors for additional legal perspectives.
In the event you are charged for a DUI, you should not take it lightly. If you want the best outcome possible, you will need help from a qualified DUI lawyer. For insights into choosing the right legal representation, check out this comprehensive guide to choosing London’s premier criminal law firm.
For further information about DUI offences, or to schedule a consultation to discuss your charges.
