Getting a ticket for driving under the influence (DUI) costs you more than your dignity or a night in jail while you sober up. The fines and social penalties associated with a DUI may be severe. A person’s first DUI can cost $2,000 or more, which is a hefty price tag for a single mistake.
Of course, the expense of a DUI is part of the way the law intends to deter people from driving drunk. If they know the risk of a fine as high as that is possible, some people will avoid drinking and driving out of concern for the cost. This isn’t the only way a DUI costs you, though. Your car insurance is likely to spike in price.
Socially, a DUI has it’s downsides as well. When you have a DUI, you may not be able to obtain certain jobs, particularly if they involve driving. You may suffer damage to your reputation among friends and family. Some people have to use ignition interlock devices, which require them to give a breath sample each time they get into their vehicles. That’s not always a good first impression on a date or when you’re out with coworkers.
DUIs also cost you money if you’re not able to drive as a result of having your license suspended or revoked. Although there are multiple ways to get around Roanoke without having a vehicle of your own, they can really add up. Even ride-sharing services cost upwards of $5 to $10 a ride for short distances. Over time, that could cost much more than being able to drive yourself. Our website has more information on the growing costs of DUIs.