If you ever get arrested for drunk driving, or a DUI (driving under the influence), you will have to worry about fines, bail bonds, fees, and court appearances. They can also affect your career, friends and family, mental health, and finances.
Some people even get depressed and anxious after getting a DUI. Others get sad, angry, and experience shame. You will learn what happens when you get arrested for drunk driving in the United States.
Getting Arrested
Once you get arrested for driving under the influence, you will get photographed and fingerprinted at the nearest police station. If someone comes to pick you up from jail, you might get released into their custody. But that will depend on the state in which the arrest occurred.
But more and more US states require jail time for all those arrested for a DUI, even if this is your first drunk driving arrest. However, these arrests usually mean that first-time offenders spend no more than a weekend in jail. Repeat offenders often get more time.
Court Appearances
Before you leave jail, you will get a summons to appear in court at a specific date and time. Think twice before fighting the charges. Doing this could ensure that the entire court will see an embarrassing video of you failing your field sobriety test.
The State Of Your Driver's License After a DUI
Most DUI arrests result in losing driving privileges for some period of time. This even applies to first-time offenders. While some states offer hardship licenses to those who can't get to work without a car, it is unlikely you will get to travel through driving outside of the commute to and from work. Many people in this situation might feel ashamed as they have to rely heavily on their loved ones to make the simplest trips by car.
DUI Fines
Part of your punishment for your DUI will often include paying some fines. The amount you will pay will largely depend on the US state in which the drunk driving arrest occurred. However, the courts can increase your fines, depending on the circumstances. Some situations under which the court could increase your fees include the following:

• Property damage that occurred as a result of your DUI
• Minor sustaining injuries during your accident
• Adults getting injured during your erratic driving

Probation
If you don't get a jail sentence for your DUI, you will probably go on probation. The judge who presided over your drunk driving case will determine the terms of your probation sentence. Breaking any of the terms of your probation will result in you going to jail.
While serving a probation sentence is preferable to going to jail, you will need to pay money for this process. These usually include monthly fees that you will need to pay. These monthly probation fees normally go towards such requirements as administration and various supervisory costs.