Getting a DWI or DUI in New York is expensive. Even if it’s your first offense, the costs can quickly add up. Between fines, insurance, legal fees, and other charges, a DWI could cost thousands of dollars. Some people end up spending $10,000 or more after everything is paid. Others may pay even more over time due to long-term insurance increases and job issues.
Here’s a breakdown of the real costs you might face after a DWI or DUI in New York.
Fines and Court Fees for a DWI in New York
The base fine for a first-time DWI in New York usually falls between $500 and $1,000. But that’s just the beginning.
If you’re charged with an Aggravated DWI (driving with a BAC of 0.18 or higher), the fine can jump to $1,000 to $2,500. If it’s your second offense within 10 years, that’s a felony. You could face $1,000 to $5,000 in fines. A third offense could bring fines between $2,000 and $10,000.
You’ll also pay court surcharges, which can be a few hundred dollars on top of the fine. Bail might be required as well, especially if you have a prior record or were involved in a crash.
Other Costs You’ll Have to Pay
After an arrest, your car may be towed and impounded. This comes with its own set of fees. Towing and impound charges often run between $100 and $500.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you’ll have to pay to get it back. Reinstatement fees can range from $50 to $100, depending on the situation.
Mandatory DWI Classes and Screening
New York often requires people convicted of DWI to attend alcohol abuse screening or classes. These programs aren’t free.
A basic class can cost around $50. If you’re ordered to attend counseling, that could cost an extra $200 or more. These programs may stretch over several weeks, depending on your case.
Your Car Insurance Will Go Up
One of the biggest long-term costs of a DWI is the impact on your car insurance. Insurance companies may label you as a high-risk driver after a conviction.
This could raise your premiums by about 74 percent. For many drivers in New York, that means an increase of $1,500 or more per year for at least three years. If your full coverage was $3,000 before, it could now cost you around $5,000 per year.
Over 10 years, that can add up to $20,000 to $30,000 in extra insurance costs alone.
Job and Income Problems
Some jobs don’t allow employees with a DWI conviction, especially if the job involves driving. If your license is suspended or revoked, you may lose your job. Even if you don’t drive for work, some employers might still take action because of the arrest or conviction.
If you have to take time off for court or DWI classes, that could also affect your paycheck. Some people report losing thousands in income while dealing with a DWI case.
Legal Fees
Hiring a private lawyer will cost money. Depending on your case, legal fees for a DWI could range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. However, working with a lawyer may help reduce your charges or help avoid long-term consequences.
Some people choose to fight their charges or work out a plea deal that lowers the penalties. That can save money in the long run.
How Much Will a DWI Really Cost Over Time?
If you add up everything — fines, legal fees, classes, towing, insurance, and job impact — a single DWI in New York could cost $10,000 easily. Some estimates place the full 10-year cost between $20,000 and $40,000.
Here’s a simple breakdown for a first-time DWI:
- Fines and court costs: $1,000 to $2,000
- Towing and impound: $100 to $500
- License fees and classes: $250
- Insurance hike over 10 years: $20,000 to $30,000
- Legal defense: $1,000 to $5,000
Total: $22,000 to $37,000 over time
That’s a rough estimate, but it shows how serious and expensive a DWI can be in New York.
Why You Should Talk to a Lawyer
A DWI isn’t just a traffic ticket. It’s a criminal charge that can have lasting effects. The costs go beyond money. A conviction can affect your job, your insurance, and even your personal relationships.
Working with a Long Island DWI lawyer can help. A lawyer may be able to reduce your charges, avoid jail time, or keep your record clean. It could mean the difference between moving on or facing long-term problems.
If you’re facing a DWI charge in New York, call Karpf Criminal Law at (631) 424-6444 for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your situation and help you understand your options.