Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious crime that can lead to hefty fines, license suspension, and even jail time. If you are caught driving while impaired in West Chester, Pennsylvania, you might wonder how much it will cost you. In this blog post, we will discuss the average cost of a DUI in West Chester and why it is essential to avoid driving under the influence.
1. Fines and Legal Fees
In West Chester, the cost of a DUI includes fines and court fees, which can reach up to $5,000. Additionally, you might need to hire a DUI lawyer to represent you in court. The legal fees can cost you anywhere between $2,000 to $10,000.
2. Insurance Premiums
Getting a DUI can lead to an increase in your car insurance premiums. In West Chester, a DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for ten years, which means you will have to pay increased premiums for a long time. The average cost of insurance hikes can range from $3,000 to $6,000 per year.
3. License Suspension
If you are convicted of a DUI in West Chester, your license will be suspended for a certain period. The duration of the suspension can range from three months to one year, depending on the severity of the offense. During this period, you will have to rely on alternative transportation means, which might add up to your expenses.
4. Ignition Interlock Devices (IID)
In certain cases, the court might order you to install an IID in your vehicle. An IID is a device that you blow into to test your blood alcohol level before starting the car. You will have to pay for the installation and rental fees of the IID, which can cost you $1,200 to $1,500 per year.
5. Other Costs
Aside from the above expenses, you might also have to pay for bail, drug and alcohol counseling, and community service hours. All these costs can add up and make a significant dent in your budget.
A DUI conviction in West Chester, Pennsylvania, can cost you anywhere between $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the severity of the charges. It is essential to avoid drinking and driving to protect yourself from such significant financial and legal consequences. If you have been charged with a DUI, it is important to seek legal assistance from an experienced DUI attorney to reduce the chances of conviction or at least minimize the penalties. Remember, the cost of a DUI is not just financial; it can also impact your reputation, career, and future. So, drive responsibly and avoid putting yourself and other people at risk.
You need more than just one good DUI lawyer. You need the best. You need a team of experienced DUI lawyers fighting for you. Contact Lee Ciccarelli, and his team of West Chester, Pennsylvania DUI lawyers.
Watch out. There’s a lot of former prosecutors boasting about their experience: experience putting people just like you behind bars. Instead, look to Lee Ciccarelli and his team with nearly 100 years of experience fighting for clients facing the penalties of a DUI.
Contact Chester County DUI Defense Attorney
It may be possible to fight your Pennsylvania DUI charge and win, but you’ll never know if you plead guilty without first exploring your options. Ciccarelli Law Offices can review your case to determine whether the local Pennsylvania district attorney’s case has weaknesses that are open to challenge. We will prepare each case as though it is going to trial to insure preparation and thorough understanding and will take the case to trial if you are not satisfied with the resolution that is offered. We strive to be zealous advocates and always try to obtain the best results for our clients.
We are based in West Chester PA (Chester County) in Suburban Philadelphia and represent individuals charged with Drunk Driving, DUI, Driving After Imbibing cases Throughout Pennsylvania including but not limited to Philadelphia, Lancaster, Allentown, Oxford Exton Phoenixville Parkesburg Malvern Coatesville Lionville Chesterbrook Devon Newtown Square Glen Mills Pottstown Downingtown Kennett Square King of Prussia Paoli and beyond.
You deserve a West Chester Pennsylvania DUI lawyer that is available when you need him, treats you with respect, and protects your rights vigorously. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI Attorney at Ciccarelli Law Offices, by contacting us at (610) 692-8700 or toll free at (877) 529-2422.