There are two ways of saving money. You either do not spend it, or you invest it. Yet, if you face a charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI), only one way will work.
If money is tight, the thought of spending to contest a DWI charge may seem out of reach. You may decide to save your money for the upcoming fine and enter a guilty plea.
Yet, many people succeed in contesting their DWI accusation. In doing so, they save themselves not only the fine but a whole lot more.
Insurance costs more when you have a driving conviction
If you are found guilty of a DWI, you need to tell your insurer. It is a condition of all policies. In exchange for your honesty, they will increase your premium. A recent report suggests you can expect an average increase of 57%, so you will need to find around $1,000 a year extra.
The policy increase comes on top of the court’s fine, ranging from a minimum of $500 for the first offense to a maximum of $10,000 for a third offense. Note, any subsequent DWI or other driving convictions would increase your insurance further.
If convicted, you will also need to pay $250 a year, for three years, for the mandatory assessment, and you might have to spend on an ignition interlock device or an alcohol education program.
Not only will a DWI conviction require you to spend, but it will also make it harder to earn. Your employer may let you go if you cannot attend work due to being incarcerated. A criminal record will make it tougher to find employment, and a license suspension may limit the range of jobs you can access. Spending on fighting a DWI charge is an investment in your future. It may be one of the best investments you make.
