Auto Insurance for Individuals Convicted of DUI/DWI

Car insurance companies frown upon drunk drivers and enforce serious penalties to those who have been charged with drunk driving, or other alcohol-related driving offenses. Convictions for such offenses will cause many insurance carriers to raise the rates significantly or cancel an insured, either during mid-term or at the end of insurance term.

Driver Alcohol Education Programs as a Penalty for DUI/DWI

When a motorist is charged with driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or driving while intoxicated (DWI), the motorist is likely to face a multitude of possible penalties. In addition to jail time, fines, and suspensions, many states require motorists to participate in what is commonly called a driver alcohol education (DAE) program. For first-time offenders participation in the program may be either discretionary or mandatory depending upon the state. However, most states require participation for repeat offenders.

License Revocations for DUI/DWI

A driver who is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is likely to be subject to either a license suspension or a license revocation. Courts are generally limited and cannot change or alter a license revocation to limit the impact on the defendant. License revocations are considered a civil penalty that are imposed to protect the public rather than a criminal penalty.

Penalties for DUI/DWI Offenses Involving Operation of Aircraft

A state may enact a statute rendering it unlawful to operate an aircraft while under the influence of intoxicating liquors, or in such a careless and reckless manner as to endanger the life or property of another. These statutes will also impose penalties, typically a fine and potential incarceration. Such statutes are strictly enforced, and any conviction can be later used to enhance a charge of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

Criminal Offense of Driving at an Excessive Rate of Speed

A speeding offense constitutes the operation of a motor vehicle at a speed in excess of that permitted under the state statutes, local ordinances, or highway or traffic commission regulations. The typical speed statute prohibits driving in excess of a specified number of miles per hour. In addition to setting forth the specified maximum rate of speed, the speed statutes usually contain provisions prohibiting driving at a speed greater than is ''reasonable and proper'' or ''reasonable and prudent'' under the prevailing conditions or having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing, or words of similar import.