How Much Does a DUI Cost in New York? 

A DUI crash in New York is more than just a legal matter. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, the financial, physical, and emotional consequences can follow you for years. Victims often face overwhelming medical bills, missed work, and long-term recovery—all while trying to hold the at-fault driver accountable. 

Understanding the true cost of a DUI helps highlight the importance of pursuing a personal injury claim if you’ve been injured.

The Immediate Financial Costs of a DUI

Drunk driving accidents come with steep and immediate financial consequences. If you were hit by someone under the influence, here are some of the costs they may be held responsible for:

• Medical expenses: ER visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and follow-up care can easily total tens of thousands of dollars.
• Lost wages: Many victims are unable to return to work right away, especially with broken bones, concussions, or long-term physical therapy needs.
• Vehicle damage: Even minor crashes can result in thousands of dollars in repair or replacement costs.

Emergency care is only the beginning. Many victims require weeks or months of recovery, often involving ongoing treatments, medications, or even home care. For some, injuries become permanent.

These are just the initial expenses. The true financial impact often continues to grow over time.

The Hidden Costs for Victims

The long-term costs of a DUI crash often go beyond what you see on a hospital bill. Hidden costs may include: 

• Insurance increases: Victims may need to file claims with their own insurer before the at-fault driver’s coverage kicks in, which could raise their premiums.
• Mental and emotional trauma: PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common after serious crashes—especially when a preventable act like drunk driving is involved.
• Loss of future earnings: If injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or force you into a different career, your lifetime earnings can take a major hit.

Some victims require mental health treatment or ongoing therapy. Others experience chronic pain or reduced mobility. These hidden costs can deeply affect your quality of life and financial security. That’s why it’s important to factor them into any injury claim.

Can You Recover Damages After a DUI Crash?

Victims of DUI accidents in New York can file a personal injury claim to seek compensation. These damages generally fall into two categories: economic and non-economic damages. 

Economic damages cover the financial losses tied directly to the accident, such as:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation costs and out-of-pocket expenses

Non-economic damages address the personal toll the crash has taken, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement or permanent disability

In some cases, victims may also seek punitive damages when the at-fault driver’s actions were especially reckless or egregious.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Drunk driving cases are often complex. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you:

• Prove liability using police reports, toxicology results, and witness statements
• Calculate the full extent of your damages, including long-term care and lost income
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies that may try to downplay your injuries
• Identify all potentially liable parties, including bars or restaurants that overserved the driver

Personal injury lawyers understand how insurance companies operate—and how to push back. Having experienced legal representation can make the difference between a low settlement and full, fair compensation.

Contact a DUI Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver in new York, don’t wait. You have a limited time to file a personal injury claim. An experienced DUI accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.

If you were injured in an accident in Utica or Syracuse, and need legal help, contact our New York personal injury lawyers at Passalacqua & Associates, LLC to schedule a free case review today.

Passalacqua & Associates, LLC
7 Hopper St,
Utica, NY 13501
Open 24/7
(315) 500-6425

Passalacqua & Associates, LLC Syracuse
499 S Warren St #220,
Syracuse, NY 13202
Open 24/7
(315) 500-6425