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 Florida, civil penalties for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) convictions are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. These penalties are outlined in Florida Statutes, particularly in the sections dealing with motor vehicles and traffic regulations. Upon conviction for a DUI, the offender can face substantial fines that may range into the thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the offense and the number of prior convictions. The driver's license suspension is a standard civil penalty, with the duration varying based on the number of previous offenses and the specific circumstances of the DUI incident. Florida law also mandates that convicted DUI offenders obtain additional insurance, typically in the form of FR-44 insurance, which is more expensive than standard policies. Offenders are often required to complete alcohol or substance abuse treatment programs and DUI intervention courses. Additionally, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on the offender's vehicle is a common requirement, especially for repeat offenders or cases involving high blood alcohol concentration levels. These civil penalties are designed to deter DUI offenses and to promote public safety on the roads.