Driving under the influence is one of the most common offenses in the U.S. Many people get caught out because they misjudged how much alcohol they had consumed or because they don’t fully grasp that DUI also applies to cannabis.
If you are arrested for a DUI in California, you may have to pay bail, which is another thing many people don’t realize until they are caught in the system. Bail for DUIs is typically low, but you don’t want to be asking, “How much is bail for a DUI in California?” after you get arrested.
Of course, the best way to avoid bail is not to drive while intoxicated in the first place, but if you do, here are some things to know.
When is Bail Required For a DUI Arrest?
Typically, bail is only required if this is your second or subsequent arrest or if the following are true:
- You have a record for things other than DUI
- An injury or death occurred as a result.
- Your BAC is particularly high.
- You were also speeding.
- You left the scene of an accident.
- You had a minor in the car.
Bail for a felony DUI is a lot higher. DUI is only a felony if you have been arrested four times in ten years or if there is a minor in the vehicle, you caused a death or injury, or you behaved belligerently towards the officers. You may also face other charges, such as reckless driving or even involuntary manslaughter.
How to Get Bail for a DUI
Bail in California is set according to a fixed schedule established in each county. A judge may set higher or lower bail. The standard total bail for driving under the influence of alcohol is can be as low as $ 500, but it is higher for other drugs. However, it is higherfor causing an injury. For a felony DUI, bail may be much high for repeated offenses.
This is where bail bondsmen come in. For a premium of no more than 10% of the bail amount (often less), we will post bail for you, allowing you to be released until your court date. We offer zero down payment plans, so you might not have to pay anything when released. Lower rates may be available, ask our agent for eligible rates.
Additional Costs Beyond Bail for DUI
A first DUI offense can result in fines and penalties, but the greater cost is having your license suspended – a minimum of 6 months for the 1st offense, up to two years, and three years, respectively, for the second and third offenses. If you are over 21 and cooperated with chemical tests, you can apply for a restricted license to drive to work, school, or other necessary opponents. You might also be able to get an IID installed on the first offense, and you will be required to do so at your own expense if you have two or more DUIs within ten years.
Arrested For DUI? Next Steps
If you have been arrested for DUI and the court has required you to post bond, you will be held in jail until your court date if you cannot do so. Call Power Bail Bonds at any time of day and night to arrange your release . We will get you released quickly and give you the support you need to navigate the next steps and deal with court dates. We are here to help with your DUI-related arrest.
Image source: Vitalii Vodolazskyi via Shutterstock
