Will You Lose Your Car After a DUI in the state of New York?

Alexander Pope once said, “To err is human.” Unfortunately, some errors are also criminal offenses according to the state of New York. If you face charges of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please read on, then contact an experienced Rockland County DUI attorney to learn if you will lose your car after a DUI in the state of New York.

Can your car be taken away after a DUI in New York?

In the state of New York, if you have been arrested on a DWI or DUI charge, the police can immediately impound your vehicle and bring forfeiture proceedings. You can obtain the car after your arrest. However, you will be required to pay the forfeiture fees, i.e., towing and impound lot fees.

What are the other consequences of a DUI in New York?

If law enforcement stops you for a DUI and you are someone over the age of 21 with a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher, someone over the age of 21 who is driving a commercial vehicle with a BAC of 0.04 percent or higher, or someone who is younger than 21 and has a BAC of 0.02 percent or higher, you will be considered impaired. The penalties are as follows:

First Offense:

  • A revoked license for at least 6 months
  • Possible fines ranging from $500-$1,000
  • Possible jail time up to 1 year
  • Potential enrollment in the New York Impaired Driver Program (IDP) and applicable costs

Second Offense:

  • A revoked license for at least 1 year
  • A $1,000-$5,000 fine
  • Potential jail time up to 4 year
  • Possible enrollment in the New York Impaired Driver Program (IDP) and associated costs

Third or Subsequent Offense:

  • Fines ranging from $2,000 to $10,000
  • Up to 7 years in jail
  • Revoked license for at least 1 year (possibly permanent revocation)
  • Additional state surcharges

You should know that if you receive a first or second DUI while under the age of 21, you may face the following penalties:

  • A revoked license for 6 months (1st offense) or one year (2nd offense) or until the age of 21
  • A $125 civil penalty
  • A $100 fee to reinstate your license
  • Potential enrollment in the New York Impaired Driver Program (IDP) and associated costs
  • Potential ignition interlock device installation and associated costs

How can a Rockland County DUI lawyer help you?

Reaching out to a skilled Rockland County criminal defense attorney to discuss your next steps can make all the difference in the severity of the penalties you will incur. You are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt or guilty plea. We will fight to keep it that way. Give us a call today.

Contact our experienced Rockland County firm

Those facing criminal charges in New York need a strong Rockland County defense attorney who knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system. Fortunately, our firm is ready to put over 30 years of experience to work for you. Call today or contact The Law Office of Carl Spector online to schedule a free confidential consultation. We are ready to help you go on living life positively, happily, and free from the burdens of a criminal conviction–all you have to do is ask.