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 Michigan, civil penalties for DUI/DWI (driving under the influence/driving while intoxicated) are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. Upon conviction for a DUI/DWI, the state can impose substantial fines, which can amount to thousands of dollars depending on the severity of the offense and the number of prior convictions. The driver's license can be suspended for varying periods, with the possibility of restrictions being placed upon reinstatement. Michigan law may also require drivers convicted of DUI/DWI to obtain additional insurance, such as a high-risk policy, which is often referred to as SR-22 insurance. Convicted individuals may be mandated to complete alcohol rehabilitation or treatment programs, as well as DUI/DWI intervention courses. Additionally, the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the offender's vehicle is a common requirement, particularly for repeat offenders or those with high blood alcohol content (BAC) levels at the time of arrest. These civil penalties are designed to deter drunk driving and to promote public safety on the roads.