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The decision to get behind the wheel after drinking may be 1 of the costliest choices you'll ever make.
The consequences extend beyond death or serious injury, though that possibility is very real. On average in Saskatchewan, 48 people are killed and more than 700 are injured each year in alcohol-related collisions. In fact, almost 40% of all traffic deaths in the province are the result of impaired driving.
If you're hurt in a collision and convicted of impaired driving, you'll receive fewer benefits for your injuries than if you weren't drinking. What's more, you'll face jail time of up to 14 years and a criminal record, which could bar you from entering the United States.
The financial cost
Court fines for impaired driving start at $1,000, with no maximum. You'll also be assessed a penalty of at least $500 under our Safe Driver Recognition program. It all adds up to a minimum of $1,500, even if it's the 1st time you've been convicted.
As an impaired driver, you have no insurance coverage for vehicles or property damaged in a collision if you're at fault. You must foot the bill for all repairs, and 1 collision alone could cost you thousands of dollars.
Administrative suspensions
Over .08
If you drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over .08, or you're charged with refusing to participate in a field sobriety test or provide a breath sample, you'll immediately have your licence suspended for 24 hours. After that, you have 7 days to get your affairs in order before facing an automatic 90-day suspension.
Over .04
Saskatchewan has additional laws for drivers caught with a BAC over .04. Experienced drivers face a 24-hour licence suspension for a 1st offence. A 2nd infraction means another suspension along with a mandatory Driving Without Impairment (DWI) course. Subsequent offences carry a 90-day suspension and compulsory addiction screening.
New drivers
If you're a new driver the consequences are even more severe. Getting behind the wheel after consuming any amount of alcohol will lead to an automatic 30-day licence suspension. Again, you'll also be required to take a DWI course. A 2nd offence carries a 90-day suspension and addiction screening prior to licence reinstatement.
Criminal Code suspensions
Criminal Code suspensions are longer, with a minimum of 1 year for the 1st offence alone. Subsequent suspensions can last up to 5 years, during which time you are prohibited from driving any vehicle.
Back behind the wheel
Getting back on the road after an impaired driving conviction will take some time. Before your licence can be reinstated, you must attend an addiction screening and assessment.
Drivers with alcohol and drug dependencies are referred to a recovery program, which may include counselling or an assignment to a treatment centre. Those without dependencies must take part in a DWI course with the $150 course fee will come straight out of your pocket.
The recovery program and education sessions are mandatory. If you choose not to take part in them, your driver's licence will remain suspended indefinitely.
Driving without a licence
If you drive without a licence, you risk having your vehicle seized and impounded for 30 days, and the costs associated with towing and storing the vehicle are up to you. You could also be fined up to $2,000, imprisoned for 2 years or both.
