Drunk-Driving: a Crime that Could Cost You Dearly

You've just had dinner with alcohol, and you think you're clear-headed enough to drive?

Think twice before getting behind the wheel. If you exceed the 0.08 limit and are pulled over, you could find yourself in big trouble: licence suspension, criminal record, fine… The consequences of drinking and driving are serious and could follow you for a long time. Here are some tips from L'Unique General Insurance to help you avoid getting into trouble!

Double Your Insurance Premium

If you are caught drinking and driving, your licence will be suspended immediately. You will then be obliged to notify your insurer. What happens? When you get your licence back, your insurance premium will rise sharply over the next few years. Changing insurers? Since you will have to declare your mistake, insurers could turn their backs on you one after the other. Failing to tell the truth is not the solution. In the event of a claim, you will have to live with the additional consequences of a false declaration.

Other Major Costs

The increase in your premium is only part of the costs you will incur if you are found guilty of impaired driving. In fact, in 2014, the Société d'assurance automobile du Québec listed all the costs associated with a first offence. You must first calculate the fine and the mandatory fees. Total bill: a minimum of $1,750. In addition, there are various other amounts:

• Costs related to a criminal record, the court registry and legal fees
• Towing and storage fees for your vehicle
• Transportation expenses to get around while your licence is revoked
• Costs of installing an immobilizer, a system that prevents your vehicle from starting if your blood alcohol level is too high
• Contribution to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (IVAC)
  

Solutions for Getting Home Safely

If you drink alcohol, behave responsibly and make sure you get home without endangering yourself or others by …:

• Carpooling With a Designated Driver
• Asking Someone You Know to Pick You Up
• Sleeping on Site
  

* Source: L'Unique Assurances générales