Driving Drunk Can Kill Your Buzz and Your Wallet

Everyone knows that driving drunk can cost you your life and your license. But did you ever stop to think about the cost to your wallet for a first time offense? Criminal lawyers and Tampa car accident law firms know the costs and they’re pretty sobering:

Here’s a breakdown of the costs of being caught driving drunk…remember, this is for first time offenders. The costs go up significantly for second time offenders, including the potential for prison time.

Fine..........................................................$390
Penalty Assessment.................................$666
State Restitution Fund..............................$100
Alcohol-Abuse Education Fund..................$50
Blood or Breath-Testing Fee.....................$37
Jail Cite-and-Release Fee ........................$10
Driving/Alcohol-Awareness School............$375 [16x weeks minimum]
License Reissue Fee.................................$100
Attorney Fees (average)..........................$2500
Auto Insurance Increase..........................$3,600 - $6,600
.................................................................[The Auto Club estimates $2200 a year for 3 years]

TOTAL COST: $7,828 - $10,828

Now any Tampa car accident lawyer will be quick to point out that these costs don't include injuries to yourself and/or others, medical bills, lost pay, vehicle damage or additional penalties for causing a crash. So the next time you ‘re weighing the choice between spending money on a taxi or driving home drunk, remember how much it’ll cost you if you make the wrong choice.