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How long do you go to jail for drunk driving?
My brother’s been charged with drunk driving. He’s very nervous about the consequences, especially how much time he’ll have to spend in jail. What is the punishment for drunk drivers?
Brittni Brinn · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I’m sorry to hear your brother is dealing with that. How long you
go to jail
for drunk driving depends on which state you’re in. It also depends on the severity of the incident and if it is a repeat offense. He may spend no time behind bars, or he may be sentenced to several months.In some states, a person charged with drunk driving (aka DUI) may be fined, have their license suspended, or be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. Here are some examples of penalties for people convicted of drunk driving for the first time:
- Alabama: No minimum jail time; $600 to $2,100 in fines; 90-day license suspension
- California: 4 days to 6 months in prison; $1,400 to $2,600 in fines; 30-day to 10-month license suspension
- Illinois: Up to one year in jail; up to $2,500 in fines; minimum one-year license suspension
- Minnesota: Up to 90 days in jail; $1,000 in fines; 90-day license suspension
- Wisconsin: No minimum jail time; $150 to $300 in fines; 6- to 9-month license suspension
It’s probably a good idea for your brother to get a lawyer if he doesn’t have one already. In some states, it’s possible to plead down a drunk driving charge to a wet reckless driving conviction, which may mean reduced or no jail time. But defendants often need the help of an attorney to do so successfully.
It can be hard to find
affordable car insurance
after a DUI, as well. Tell your brother about Jerry
. Jerry comparison shops over 50 name-brand insurers to find the best rates for drivers, no matter their driving record. Users save an average of $887 a year on car insurance.View full answer
- Gregory R.
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