Driving on a suspended license in Hawaii is a serious offense with significant consequences. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to understand what penalties you could face. It is helpful for all drivers to understand the potential outcomes if they get caught driving while their license is suspended in the state of Hawaii.
Criminal charges and fines
If you drive on a suspended license in Hawaii, you can face criminal charges. This offense is typically classified as a misdemeanor, which means it will appear on your criminal record. Depending on the circumstances, such as why your license was suspended in the first place, the court may impose a fine ranging from $250 to $1,000. Repeat offenses can lead to higher fines and more severe penalties.
Jail time
In addition to fines, driving on a suspended license in Hawaii can result in jail time. For a first offense, you might be sentenced to up to five days in jail. For subsequent offenses, the jail time can increase to as much as 30 days. The court considers factors like your driving history and the reason for the suspension when deciding on the length of the jail sentence.
Extension of license suspension
Getting caught driving on a suspended license often leads to an extension of the suspension period. The court can extend your suspension by an additional year or more, depending on the situation. This means you’ll be unable to legally drive for an even longer period, complicating your daily life and potentially affecting your employment and personal responsibilities.
Impact on insurance rates
If you’re caught driving with a suspended license, your insurance rates could increase significantly. Insurance companies view this behavior as high-risk, and they may raise your premiums or even cancel your policy altogether. Having a suspended license on your driving record can make it more difficult and expensive to obtain insurance in the future.
Towing and impoundment of your vehicle
When law enforcement catches you driving with a suspended license, they may tow and impound your vehicle. Recovering your vehicle from impoundment involves paying additional fees, which can add to the financial burden of your offense. In some cases, if you repeatedly drive on a suspended license, the state may seize your vehicle permanently.
Driving on a suspended license in Hawaii carries serious consequences. It’s crucial to follow the law and avoid driving until your license is reinstated to prevent these penalties and ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.