After making an unfortunate decision, Florida police pulled you over and arrested you for drunk driving. While exploring your legal options, you also want to know how the charge affects your finances.
U.S. News & World Report explores various drunk driving charges. Get the facts on the matter, so you may create a sensible budget.
Transportation costs
If you lost your driving privileges, you may need to pay for public transportation or rideshare services to get to and from work and anywhere else you want to go. Even if loved ones offer to drive you here and there, they may ask for gas money.
License fees
If you lost your driver’s license, you must pay a reinstatement fee before getting it back.
Car insurance
When the time comes to renew your car insurance policy, expect your insurance provider to find out about your interaction with the police. They may not drop you as a customer, but they could increase your premiums. How much more you pay depends on the insurance company, and you may pay higher premiums for three years or a decade. If your insurance provider drops you as a customer, you could have a hard time finding a carrier willing to cover you.
Other than your car insurance, you must also think about other policies you have with your current provider. If you have home insurance or other policies bundled with your auto policy, you could lose your discount if your carrier drops you.
A single DUI could have severe financial repercussions for years to come. When you know what awaits on the road ahead, you may better anticipate the twists and turns.
