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 Arkansas, civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. These penalties are outlined in the state's statutes, particularly within the transportation and motor vehicle sections. Upon conviction for DUI/DWI, the state may impose fines that can reach into the thousands of dollars. Additionally, the driver's license can be suspended for a significant period, depending on the number of prior offenses and the severity of the incident. Arkansas law also requires those convicted of DUI/DWI to obtain SR-22 insurance, a type of high-risk auto insurance, which must be maintained for a period of time as specified by the court. Offenders may be mandated to complete alcohol education programs or treatment interventions. Furthermore, the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the offender's vehicle is a common requirement, especially for repeat offenders or those with high blood alcohol content (BAC) levels at the time of arrest. These civil penalties are designed to deter impaired driving and to promote public safety on the roads.