Drunk drivers beware…driving under the influence is about to become much more costly.
The Provincial Government yesterday introduced changes to the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) that will greatly increase the penalties if you are caught drinking and driving.

Drivers who blow over the legal limit 0f 0.08 per cent BAC or refuse to provide a breath sample will face:

1) an immediate, 90-day driving ban

2) a $500 fine

3) a $250 fee to have their license reinstated

their vehicles impounded for 30 days

4) a $700 bill for towing and impoundment

5) Mandatory participation in a $800 drivers rehabilitation program

6) a $1420 bill for one years use of a an ignition interlock device (requires a breath sample to start the vehicle.

Total bill: $3670 PLUS transportation costs while they can’t drive.

You could still face criminal charges above all this.

In addition, drivers who blow in the “warn” range (between 0.05 and 0.08 BAC) will face stiffer penalties

Fist offence in a 5 year period: three-day driving ban and a $200 fine;

a second time, a seven-day ban and a $300 fine;

and a third, a 30-day ban and a $400 fine

Those caught 3 times in 5 years will also be required to participate in the rehabilitation program and install the interlock device.

The new rules are expected to come into effect in the fall.  You can read a BC Government press release here.