The $ and ¢ of it
Have you ever questioned the true value of a cab ride or a designated driver? Here’s an example of minimum costs to a first time convicted impaired driver in Ontario:
Criminal Code Fine – $1000 (minimum; could be $1,500 or $2,000 based on BAC reading)
Back On Track Remedial Measures Program – $634
Licence Reinstatement Fee – $281
Increase in Insurance Costs – $5,000 – $8,000 increase for 3-5 years (varies)
Ignition Interlock – $1,500
Court Costs – $2,000 – $10,000
Immediate consequences for drivers in Ontario caught with a BAC of over .08 or who refuse to provide a breath sample include an immediate administrative 90-day licence suspension and seven day vehicle impoundment.
Minimum consequences for drivers convicted of: impaired driving, operating a vehicle with a BAC of over .08, or refusing to provide a breath sample are:
One-year driver licence suspension
- One-year ignition interlock condition upon reinstatement (up to three years for repeat offenders)
- Back on Track program (alcohol assessment and education)
- Minimum fine paid as part of federal consequences
- Licence reinstatement fee
- Increased insurance premiums
- Legal costs (if retained; paid to your own legal counsel)
- Criminal Record
Since 2009 consequences for drivers in the warn range (.05 to .08) have increased and now include: immediate suspensions of 3, 7 and 30 days; education and treatment for alcohol use; and six month ignition interlock licence restrictions. The increased sanctions are for “repeat offenders”.
Drivers aged 21 and under and novice drivers must have a zero BAC and zero cannabis when driving. Otherwise they face:
- an immediate 24-hour licence suspension, or
- a 30-day suspension and up to $500 in fines
Repeat offenders face greater consequences and longer licence suspensions.
Impaired boaters face the same consequences as impaired drivers.