The holiday season brings many festive occasions with our friends and family, unfortunately, it also increases risk on our roadways. Before the holiday arrive, we often get advice and warning from our family, friends and media – Don’t drink and drive. Based on the Auto Club research, there are nearly 1800 people were killed or injured alcohol-related crashes in California in November and December from 2005 through 2009.
Cost Of Drunk Driving
The fine for drunk driving is extremely expensive, for a first offense arrest can cost a driver more than $1,200 in fines, vehicle storage, alcohol-education courses, the victim restitution fund, DMV license reissue fees, attorney expenses and insurance costs. There are also additional costs such as booking and fingerprinting fees and ignition interlock-device, which vary around the state.
More Expensive For Young Drivers
If you are young driver under age 21, it would be financial trouble as your total cost can easily reach to $1,700. The large portion of increase is the insurance premiums, which are typically greater than older and more experienced drivers.
Cost Of Hospital and Litigation
After all the time spent in jail or the hospital, taking time off from work for court or other related appointments, repairing or replacing a car, the hassle of living without driver license, and other legal liabilities if you are sued. According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drinking and driving costs society more than $45 billion annually.
Certainly, drinking and driving exacts an even more important toll that cannot be measure in monetary terms – the cost of people injured or killed, perhaps the driver’s loved ones. Do your part and be aware of the following safety tips during holidays season. Do not drink and drive.
Safety Tips
- Plan ahead and designated a non-drinking driver before any holiday party or celebration begins
- If you are hosting a party, be a responsible and offer alcohol-free beverages and food
- If possible, utilize a bus, taxi or other publish transportation to get to and from the party place
- Reserve a hotel room near your party or stay with friends locally rather than trying to make home
- Take advantage of the Auto Club’s Tipsy Tow program. This program offers free rides to membership drivers who have been drinking at the New Year Eve. The service runs from 6pm Saturday, December 31, through 6am Sunday, January 1
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