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 Wyoming, civil penalties for DUI/DWI convictions are indeed separate from criminal charges and can be quite severe. Upon conviction for DUI/DWI, the state can impose substantial fines that may reach into the thousands of dollars. Additionally, the driver's license of the convicted individual is typically suspended for a period that varies depending on the number of prior offenses and the specific circumstances of the case. Wyoming law also requires drivers convicted of DUI/DWI to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a form of high-risk auto insurance, for a period of time post-conviction. Furthermore, offenders may be mandated to complete alcohol education or treatment programs and DUI/DWI intervention courses. Lastly, 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.