Driving under the influence of alcohol is never smart, and once you’ve been convicted of a DUI in Florida, it may be hard to think of yourself as anything but unwise. For a first-offense DUI in Florida, you could be looking at $1,000 in court fines, plus the DMV fees, and that may be just the first part of your financial commitment, especially when you have to install a car breathalyzer or ignition interlock device.
The overall cost of a Florida ignition interlock device can vary somewhat, depending on how long you must use it and the service provider you choose. When you’re looking at the big picture of costs, time, and frustration you’ve already been through, an ignition interlock probably isn’t your next choice in where to spend money. But, consider that if you do not install the device, you’re looking at plenty more trouble in the future, including a bigger financial mess than you’re digging out of today.
An ignition interlock device allows you to keep driving yourself to and from your job so that you don’t have to face unemployment and the loss of your paycheck. You’ve probably already experienced the frustration of finding a ride during your license suspension period, and instead of dreading your ignition interlock and its costs, you could see it as the best solution possible. After all, it was your unwise choice to drive under the influence… the least you can do is prove you are much smarter now.
Losing your ability to drive yourself around can have a worse impact on your wallet than just installing and maintaining an ignition interlock device. And, as long as you remain sober when driving, your financial commitment to the device won’t last forever. You’ll still have your job, and your friends won’t feel the burden of your mistake each time you ask for a ride. That’s being smart, and the best way to put your Florida DUI behind you.
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