When you consider the fact that you can get a ride with a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft for just a few bucks, it’s alarming to learn how much it costs when you don’t choose that safe, sober ride.
Paying the ultimate price for driving impaired
Nobody can put a dollar figure on loss of life. Unfortunately, many impaired driving incidents end very badly, and the guilt from hurting your own family or others will never go away. But this is definitely not the only cost to consider.
Costs to the driver
According to NHTSA, drunk driving charges cost offenders lots of time and money. Charges range from misdemeanors to felony offenses. Penalties for impaired driving can include driver’s license revocation, fines, and jail time. The monetary costs can be very high. The cost of a first-time offense varies case-by-case, but it may cost the driver $10,000 or more. Each situation is different, but here are some examples of costs often associated with DUI/DWI cases:
- towing and impoundment
- bail and bond
- court costs and court-ordered fines
- defense attorney costs (hourly rate, retainer, and/or flat fee)
- OMV restricted license application
- SR-22 insurance and increase in insurance premiums
- alcohol treatment/classes and substance abuse evaluations
- loss of employment and future employment opportunities if you work in a position such as pilot, driver, or other alcohol-sensitive occupations
- loss of income for missed work due to arrest and appointments
- ignition interlock device
Costs to the country
In addition to the human toll drunk driving takes on our country, the financial impact is devastating: based on the most recent data available, impaired-driving crashes cost the United States $44 billion annually.
Let Smart Start of Louisiana help
Smart Start of Louisiana is the smart choice because we offer an affordable certified approved interlock product. We don’t like to use the word "cheapest" when referring to our service because it implies low quality, and our products are high quality and reliable. Our breathalyzers for car and personal use are offered at a low price but with great service. We continue to separate drinking from driving with years of experience and a network of statewide service locations. You can even save 20% on the installation of your interlock ignition device by filling out our contact form.
