KCSO: Financial consequences of a DUI

You know that this is often the result of DUI
but what if it's not a serious crash
Photo courtesy WSDOT

From the King County Sheriff's Office

Instead of giving you the same old line about the perils of drinking and driving, we thought we'd share the impact a single DUI could have on your life and your wallet.

The total cost of a DUI in Washington State is estimated to be upwards of $10,000. 

Of course, the cost will vary depending on whether this is a first offense, your blood alcohol level (BAC), other fines and fees assessed by law and how expensive your attorney is.

The maximum penalty for a DUI is $5,000. Additional fines are assessed in King County, around $865.

No damage from this DUI. The driver just slid
into the parking lot at the LFP police station.
Photo courtesy LFP Police

You'll have to pay lab fees, the cost of electronic home monitoring (if ordered), and the cost of an ignition interlock device (and periodic calibration fees) if ordered.

Your driver's license will be suspended, and you'll have to pay reinstatement fees. And then there's the cost of your car insurance going up.

A DUI comes with possible jail time of up to a year, and that's only if you don't hurt someone.

Hopefully this information is sobering enough to convince you to drive sober. Or, you could take just take a rideshare for less than a $100.

RCW 46.61.5055 Alcohol and drug violators—Penalty schedule