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 Rhode Island, civil penalties for DUI/DWI (driving under the influence/driving while intoxicated) are indeed separate from criminal charges and are governed by state statutes. Upon conviction for DUI/DWI, the state can impose various civil penalties. These can include substantial fines that may amount to thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the offense and the number of prior offenses. The Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is also authorized to suspend the driver's license of individuals convicted of DUI/DWI. This suspension can vary in length, again depending on the specifics of the case and the driver's history. Additionally, those convicted may be required to obtain special insurance, such as SR-22 insurance, which is a certificate of financial responsibility that must be maintained for a set period. Rhode Island law may also require individuals to complete alcohol education or treatment programs and DUI/DWI intervention courses. Finally, the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the offender's vehicle is a common civil penalty, 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 DUI/DWI offenses and to promote public safety on the roads.