When you see swirling lights in your rearview mirror, a night of enjoyment could become a night of unfortunate events. If Maryland police hit you with a DUI, you could face more charges in the coming weeks and days than you realize.
American Addiction Centers explores the various costs associated with drunk driving charges. To create a viable budget, you must know which expenses to account for and expect.
Bail
Either you or someone you know must pay your bail to release you from jail after law enforcement arrests you.
Towing and storage
After police arrest you for drunk driving, you cannot drive your car back home. If you do not have a sober passenger or friend to take your car, you must pay to have it towed and impounded.
Ignition interlock device
Depending on the state, a first offender may need to install an ignition interlock device on her or his car. The device measures the alcohol on a person’s breath and does not start the vehicle until it does not detect alcohol. First offenders pay installation, monthly and removal fees for the device.
Fees
Aside from court fees, DUI charges come with various other fees. Examples include sentencing fees, fees for spending time in jail and probation fees.
Substance abuse classes
Nearly everyone with a drunk driving charge must take a substance abuse class. Fees vary widely across the board, and the program selected could affect the final cost.
Getting all the facts on DUI charges could ease your mind. When you have the resources to create a viable budget, you have one less thing to worry about.
