The state of Virginia takes driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol seriously. As a result, the penalties that it imposes for those convicted of a DUI charge can be severe and long-lasting.
However, many people consider the potential jail time the main ramification. DUI Virginia attorneys often see additional challenges clients face, primarily regarding their financial wellness.
Here is an overview of the financial implications of a DUI conviction in Virginia, including increased insurance premiums, court fines, and legal expenses. Remember — if you have been charged with a DUI, seeking legal assistance is one of the best ways to strengthen your case and reduce the penalties of a potential conviction, where possible.
What Constitutes a DUI?
Contrary to popular belief, a person can be considered to be under the influence even if their blood alcohol content does not meet the legal limit; however, in Virginia, this limit is 0.08 percent. Anyone exceeding this limit legally qualifies for a DUI charge.
Those who are unable to safely operate their motor vehicle (such as being unable to stay within a lane, failing to yield or stop appropriately, or harassing other vehicles) may be considered to be driving while under the influence of a substance, even if their BAC is zero. This is why driving while intoxicated includes both alcohol consumption and the use of drugs.
The Financial Consequences of a Conviction
Those who are charged with a DUI will need to attend court, where they will either be convicted or have the charge dropped. Should a conviction occur, some penalties will be levied immediately, while others will be applied later. Many of these consequences are financial, including the following.
Insurance Premium Adjustment
Insurers base their prices on the overall safety of the driver operating the vehicle. Because those who have historically driven while under the influence of a substance have demonstrated that they do not always operate a vehicle safely, insurers will view them as a higher risk.
This increased risk correlates to a greater chance that the insurer will need to pay out for an accident, which costs the insurer money. As a result, the insurance agency will increase the premium due for the at-risk driver to compensate.
Thus, those who have been convicted of a DUI will typically see their insurance rates soar rapidly after the event; in Virginia, the increase averages around 86%. In some instances, an insurer may choose not to continue to cover the vehicle at all due to the risk.
Court Fines
The fines that come with a DUI conviction will depend upon the circumstances of the case and your history. If this is your first offense, you can be fined up to $2,500 according to Virginia State Code Section 18.2-270.
However, if you injured someone else, each victim may add another $2,500 to the total fines, and fines of an additional $1,000 can be issued in the event that someone is killed in the crash. Fines may become more substantial if this is not your first DUI conviction.
Loss of Income or Opportunity
Many Virginia DUIs can result in revocation of the person’s driver’s license. Not only is this inconvenient, but it also likely means loss of income, as the individual can no longer commute to work.
Even if they can take public transit or utilize the services of a family member, a DUI still means lost opportunity. Some professions may revoke certifications upon discovering a DUI conviction, while other employers may elect to fire someone due to their criminal history.
The person may lose access to a company car necessary to do their work, or they may lose their security clearance if they were working in a job that required one. All of these elements can result in financial penalties that arise in more ways than just a deduction from your bank account.
Furthermore, you will need to pay licensing fees as normal when your revocation period is over, further increasing the financial burden. If this is not your first DUI, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device and may even lose your right to drive permanently.
Seek Legal Assistance for Your DUI Charge
If you are facing a DUI conviction, avoiding the many financial consequences that come with the charge is paramount to maintaining your lifestyle and opportunities. The best way to achieve this aim is with the help of a legal representative.
The DUI attorneys at The Law Offices of Kermit A. Monge can represent you in court and craft a compelling argument that utilizes all available evidence in your case to minimize the financial repercussions where possible. Contact Kermit A. Monge to schedule a consultation.