The Average Cost of a DUI
Driving under the influence of alcohol can have devastating effects on innocent people and society at large. This is one of the reasons why criminal penalties for a DUI in Ohio can be so severe. As if the shame and consequences of a drunk driving arrest and conviction weren’t bad enough, a driving under the influence conviction comes with a hefty price tag, too. Your first DUI can cost upwards of $15,000 – even without property damage or anyone harmed. Here’s a breakdown of some of the expenses you can expect if you are convicted of a DUI offense in Ohio prepared by the Toledo, Ohio DUI Attorneys at Sawan & Sawan.
Tow and Impound Fees
Typically, after a DUI arrest, the arresting officer will tow the vehicle to a local impound lot. While on this lot, the vehicle will accrue tow and impound fees per day. Depending on how long the vehicle is impounded, these fees can add up fast.
Estimated Cost Range: $100 to $1,000
Judicial Penalties
If you plead guilty or are convicted of a first OVI (operating a vehicle under the influence) offense, the judge may fine you a minimum of $375 and a maximum of $1,075. This penalty can be $2,750 depending on the circumstances of your situation.
Estimated Cost Range: $375 to $2,750
Auto Insurance Increase
Insurance monthly premiums can be three to five times higher for a Driver with a DUI conviction than an auto liability policy for a driver with a clean driving record. You will also need to file an SR-22 form with the State’s Department of Motor Vehicles. An SR-22 is a “Proof of Financial Responsibility” form. It certifies that a driver has purchased at least the minimum required amount of liability insurance for their state. While every driver is required to carry this level of insurance, drivers with a DUI, a DWI, or citations for driving without insurance must also file an SR-22.
Estimated Cost Range: $800 to $3,000
Driver Intervention Program
If the judge sentences you to attend a Driver Intervention Program, there will be a cost associated with that program as well. In some circumstances, the Court may order an extended DIP program be completed, raising the cost substantially. In general, one 3-day program typically costs $200. To access the State of Ohio’s Driver Intervention Provider Program Database, please visit the Ohio Driver Intervention Program Directory website
Estimated Cost Range: $200 to $400
License Reinstatement Fee
When you are charged with operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Ohio, you are subject to a number of different types of license suspensions, ranging from 6 months to an indefinite period of time. Under the termination of your suspension, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles charges a reinstatement fee to restore your license privileges. In Ohio, the State typically charges a reinstatement fee of $475 after an OVI/DUI conviction. To learn more about Ohio Reinstatement fees, please visit the BMV website.
Estimated Cost: $475
Attorney’s Fees
On average, Ohioans report spending approximately $2,500 in attorney fees and we agree that is a reasonable expectation of the average cost of a DUI lawyer. This average includes responses from those who used public defenders rather than privately-hired attorneys – so the number can even be higher depending on the nature of the offense, the jurisdiction and quality of the representation sough in terms of time spent on the case. Complicated cases where the stakes are high and your DUI lawyer represents you all the way through a trial can increase the cost significantly.
Estimated Cost Range: $1,500 to $7,500
Total cost of a DUI: $4,950 to $15,125
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Sawan & Sawan is an Ohio based criminal defense law firm with Toledo DUI lawyers licensed to practice law in the State of Ohio. If you have been charged with a DUI and would like to speak further about your specific legal matter, call Sawan & Sawan today at 419-900-0955 to schedule a free consultation.