After all the publicity concerning BC having the toughest impaired driving penalties in Canada you decide to drink and drive. You are stopped by police, blow a fail reading (BAC > 100 mg% or .10) on the screening device and are now in serious trouble for the first time in your driving career. What happens under the Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP) Program?
Effective immediately, you are prohibited from driving for a period of 90 days, the count starting at midnight on that day. There are no exceptions for work or any other circumstances.
The vehicle you are driving goes to jail for 30 days. It doesn't matter who the owner is, perhaps affecting your company or meaning you will have to pay rental fees while the vehicle sits idle. Towing and storage fees are your responsibility.
The IRP comes with a $500 monetary penalty, and once it ends, there will be a $250 driver's license reinstatement fee.
Now it's time to sign up for the Responsible Driver Program. You will be assessed and directed to one of three programs suited to your needs. The tuition fee is $880.
Finally, once you are back on the road you will need an ignition interlock installed in every vehicle that you drive. You can lease one for $1,730 for the year for each vehicle. In order to keep the vehicle running, you will have to supply it with samples of your breath to show that you are not impaired by alcohol.
Overall, it's 90 days without driving, 30 days of vehicle impound, schooling, having a device check your breath regularly while driving and an estimated $4,000+ minimum cost. Is it really worth it to take the chance?
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