Reader’s Question:

I just got my Washington, DC driver’s license and I was already educated about the hazards of drinking and driving. Do you have any idea what are the penalties for drunk driving in Washington, DC?

Chad

Washington, DC

Driving while under the influence of either substance or alcohol is a big no-no here in Washington, DC. The District of Columbia observes a zero tolerance policy when it comes to DUI and DWI. Due to the fact that the mass media has proliferated on the effects and hazards of drunk driving, harsher laws have been implemented to minimize road mishaps. Of course, corresponding penalties have been severed. DUI and DWI are considered criminal offense here in Washington DC. Enforcers for these laws would be the police and local courts and not just your DMV. If you don’t learn your lessons the first time around, they’ll see to it that you get off the road. Your second offense should not happen within the next 15 years from the first offense. Otherwise, you are headed for a jail sentence of not less than 5 days up to one year and a penalty of between $1,000 and $5,000. Whereas if you incur another offense within the next 15 years, you will be fined with $2,000 to $10,000 and you’ll face mandatory prison time of not less than 10 days to one year.

Now these are really serious penalty for law offenders. And it would actually cost you more than your life or the others. I suggest that you get yourself covered with an appropriate auto insurance in case the unexpected happens.

Tags: auto insurance, DUI, DUI cost, DUI lawyer, DUI penalties