In addition to any criminal charges for DUI/DWI, a state may assess civil (non-criminal) penalties against a person convicted of DUI/DWI. Civil penalties may include (1) thousands of dollars of fines; (2) suspension of the driver’s license; (3) requirements for additional insurance; (4) completion of alcohol rehabilitation/treatment and DUI/DWI intervention courses; and (5) installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the driver’s motor vehicle.
The laws regarding civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code.
In Alaska, civil penalties for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are in addition to any criminal charges and are outlined in the state's statutes. Upon conviction, the state may impose fines that can reach into the thousands of dollars. The driver's license may be suspended for a period that varies depending on the number of prior offenses and the severity of the incident. Alaska law also requires DUI/DWI offenders to carry SR-22 insurance, which is a form of high-risk auto insurance, for a set period after their license is reinstated. Offenders may be mandated to complete alcohol education programs or substance abuse treatment. Furthermore, the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on all vehicles the offender operates is a common requirement, especially for repeat offenders or those with high blood alcohol content at the time of arrest. These civil penalties are designed to deter impaired driving and to promote public safety on the roads.