10/26/2009
By Ryan Guthrie
The “real” cost of impaired driving -
Ever wonder what the costs really are if you get picked up for blowing over .08 (blood alcohol level)? Here is something to consider - based on a 45 yr old Toronto resident using an ’09 Buick Allure for business –
- Direct insurance premium going from $1500 to as high as $10,000 + likely arranging with a new insurance company at higher deductibles and resulting loss of homeowner discounts – for at least 3 years (and probably longer) = $30,000.
- Legal expenses, conviction/jail time estimated at $15,000
- Expenses of public transportation for at least one year - $1000
- Loss of income (if you don’t lose your job) - $ ?
- Total = $46,000 +
If you have an “at fault” accident at the same time or during the same year –
- Add another $4000 to that premium with it likely going to $12,000 for at least 3 years (typically longer)
- Add another = $12,000 +
If the “at-fault” accident happened at the same time causing an injury and resulting lawsuit –
- Depending on nature of injury – lawsuit could be $100,000 or several million AND, your insurance company will look to the convicted driver for complete reimbursement i.e. “not insurable”.
- Total - $100,000., $1,000,000., or more !
Total cost to you? Coupled with long-term psychological, family and job costs - More than you could ever imagine!
Total cost to society? Same!
Please do not drink & drive – Ryan Guthrie
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