Even the rich and famous cannot avoid the consequences if they choose to drive intoxicated. In fact, because of their fame celebrities are often under higher scrutiny when they are arrested for DWI or DUI. In fact there is an entire section of entertainment news website TMZ dedicated to celebrities who have been arrested for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence. Actors, musicians, athletes and even former child stars have been arrested for driving while intoxicated. While the list of celebrities who have been arrested for a DWI seems almost endless, there are a number of celebrities who use their fame to promote drinking responsibly and finding safe ways home.
Many critics of celebrities indicate that because celebrities are in the public eye and are often looked up to (rightly or wrongly) by young people, they should consider their behavior before operating a motor vehicle while under the influence.
New York Celebrity DWI
While the TMZ website is full of drivers on the west coast who got behind the wheel after drinking, the problem with celebrity DWIs are not limited to Hollywood. This past week in New York, a rapper who was considered to be one of Jay Z protégés plead guilty to DWI. The rapper was arrested in May of last year, and while there was no accident or injury caused by the intoxication, the rapper had been previously charged for two previous DWIs.
His string of DWIs made his third offense even more serious. While the rapper who was arrested likely does not have the same 550 Million dollar net worth as his mentor Jay Z, many celebrities who are charged with driving while intoxicated are not fazed by the financial consequences of getting arrested by one of these offenses. Unfortunately, this may set a bad example for other individuals who may find themselves charged with DWIs.
Fees & Fines Associated with A DWI in New York
While many celebrities may have the luxury to pay fines associated with a DWI, the average person will likely have more difficulty. Not including court costs or attorney’s fees, a first offense DWI can cost up to $1000 in fines. If an individual has more than one DWI on their record, these fines can increase up to $10,000. Additionally, if another person was killed or injured in an accident by an intoxicated driver, there is a chance you will be responsible for a court verdict in a civil case that is ten times your fine or much more. You can find more about penalties for DWI offenses here.
Whether or not you are a celebrity a DWI can have lasting consequences. It can affect your ability to get a job, harm your financial standing, and if even if you are not a celebrity hurt your public image. You can read more about the legal consequences of a DWI on this page.
How Can We Help?
Charged with a DWI in New York? Contact our team today to learn your options. We’re available 24/7; 1-866-792-7800.
DISCLAIMER: The exclusive purpose of this article is educational and it is not intended as either legal advice or a general solution to any specific legal problem. Corporate offices for Nave DWI Defense Attorneys are located at 432 N. Franklin Street, Suite 80, Syracuse, NY 13204; Telephone No.: 1-866-792-7800. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Attorney Advertising.
