Driving under the influence is a dangerous thing to do, especially if the person driving is extremely drunk. If you or someone you know lives in Arizona, it’s a good idea to research the consequences of a first offense super extreme DUI (A.R.S. §28-1382) before anyone does something they’ll regret.
Watch this short video of David Cantor explaining the First Super Extreme DUI Penalties:
Super Extreme DUI: Penalties
What are the penalties for a Super Extreme DUI in Arizona? First, a DUI is considered “super extreme” if the blood alcohol content of a driver is 0.20 or more. If you get convicted of a super extreme DUI and have not had any other DUI convictions within the last seven years, you’re mandatory minimum sentence will be 45 days in jail. You’ll also have to pay back jail costs of at least $4,900 and additional fines at least $3,300. You will then have to pay $100 to have a substance abuse screening, plus another $585 so you can take 36 alcohol abuse classes.
For three months after you’re convicted, you won’t be able to drive. Once you get your license back, you’ll have to have an ignition interlock device hooked up to your car, which can cost approximately $1,500. This means you’ll have to do a breath test every time you start your car and in 15 minute intervals if you’re driving for longer than a quarter of an hour. An SR22 policy is also required. You’ll have to pay a $500 fee every year for three years (for a total of $1,500) so your insurance agency can contact the DMV if you somehow stop being insured. Speaking of insurance, yours will go up $3,000 for each of the next three years because of your conviction (for a total of $9,000!).
A lot of these fees are only applicable if you decide you want to drive after you get your license back. If you decide to forego driving for a few years, you will still owe $9,300 for your DUI. It’ll be much more if you decide to own and insure a car – $19,800.
The State of Arizona is very strict when it comes to driving under the influence. Even if you think you’re capable to drive, just remember that $20 for a taxi is much better than paying the state and your insurance company $20,000(!!) once you are convicted of a DUI in Arizona.
The only way to reduce the fines and penalties is to fight the DUI with the help of a DUI Defense lawyer. To get a Free Consultation for a Super Extreme DUI in Arizona, call DM Cantor at (602) 307-0808 or send us an email. Our offices are available 24 hours a day.