Drinking and Driving? It'll Cost Ya

The consequences of DUI's are extensive - especially financially and personally.

Not only are you putting yours and other lives at risk, you are putting your job, your home, your family, and your bank account at a huge risk.

If you received a DUI as a FIRST offense, it may cost you up to $20,000 in legal fees and related expenses, as stated by a criminal justice expert. The expert calculated the costs based on information from 18 agencies, groups and companies. This amount includes the cost of posting bail, vehicle towing, fines and court costs. The majority of the expense is hiring a lawyer and paying higher insurance premiums. This excludes damage to the car, other property damage, or possible medical costs. Also, if the lawyer needs to bring in a specific expert or witnesses, this is an extra fee.

Consider that your license may also be suspended, you may face jail time, probation time, and it will affect your driving record. Many employers do not tolerate drunken driving offenses – especially if your job is associated with driving. A DUI may affect your job, which can affect your living situation, relationships, put more pressure on your marriage, and so on. The list is endless.

Is that worth driving drunk?