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?
90 Day Driving Prohibition
Effective immediately, drivers who blow a fail 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.
30 Day Vehicle Impound
The vehicle you are driving goes to impound 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 and will amount to $680 or more in 2025.
Penalties and Licence Fees
The IRP resulting from a fail reading comes with a $500 monetary penalty, and once it ends, there will be a $250 driver's license reinstatement fee.
The Responsible Driver Program
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.
Ignition Interlock
Finally, once you are back on the road you will need an ignition interlock installed in every vehicle that you drive. Smart Start Canada supplies the interlock and this is the current fee schedule. 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.
Risking a Fail Reading
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 if you will blow a fail?
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