Things That Happen When Someone Is Arrested For Drunk Driving

Has someone you know been recently arrested for drunk driving? Although it’s a practice we all want to avoid, sometimes people get in trouble for driving under the influence. It’s important to be familiar with what might happen to a person who has encountered this type of legal trouble. It’s also a good idea to be aware of what happens when people drive while intoxicated so you might think twice about getting behind the wheel.

Pay Fines

Most of the time when a person is charged with driving under the influence, there are usually fines and court costs associated with a conviction. Fines for drunk driving cases are usually higher than the fines for other traffic crimes. This is to help deter people from operating a vehicle when they’re inebriated because the costs can sometimes be quite substantial. Fines for repeat offenses of driving under the influence can be extremely expensive. Courts sometimes allow people to go on a payment plan to pay a little bit each month until the fine is fully paid.

Attend Courses

When people go to court for a drunk driving charge, many times the judge orders classes to help people learn how to make better decisions in the future. In the past these types of court-ordered classes would be in a traditional classroom setting. Nowadays, people can attend an online drug and alcohol course when they need to fullfill this requirement for the courts. The online setting makes it easier for the attendee to work the classes around their schedule, and saves the commuting time to a live classroom setting.

Receive Probation

Part of being convicted of a drunk driving offense will involve some type of probation or community supervision. Probation is an alternative to doing time in jail. While you’re on probation, you will have to meet regularly with a supervision officer. This individual will expect you to maintain gainful employment, attend any courses ordered by a judge, and to not commit any new crimes. Probation usually involves monthly fees, drug tests, and possible visits to your home or work by your probation officer.

Other factors are also involved in a conviction for driving under the influence. Drunk driving is an expensive mistake, and it can take years to complete a court sentence. If you’d rather avoid these types of problems, it’s a good idea to have a designated driver ready next time you go out drinking.