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 Oregon, 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, an individual can face substantial fines, which can amount to thousands of dollars. The driver's license suspension is a standard civil penalty, with the duration varying based on the number of prior offenses and other factors. Oregon law also requires individuals convicted of DUI/DWI to carry SR-22 insurance, a type of high-risk auto insurance, for a period after their conviction. Additionally, completion of an alcohol education program or treatment is often mandated. Finally, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is typically required for all offenders who wish to regain their driving privileges during the suspension period. These civil penalties are designed to deter DUI/DWI offenses and to promote public safety on the roads.