The New Year is among us and so are the festivities – Please remember to be responsible when celebrating with family, friends, and coworkers. Designate a driver.
Just know every single injury and death caused by a drunk driver is completely preventable. By simply planning ahead you can potentially save another’s life as well as your own by not drinking and driving.
Some options include:
– Designate a driver
– Public transportation or an Online transportation network company
– Prior arrangements to stay overnight
– Calling someone to pick you up
According to the AAA website, there are approximately 1,500 Californians killed and 30,000 injured each year as a result of drinking and driving. The choice to use alcohol is a legal right granted to adults 21 years of age and over. It’s what you choose to do with that right that makes a difference.
A first DUI conviction can easily cost you over $12,000
Drinking and driving is a costly gamble. Even on a first offense, you could be looking at over $12,000 in fines, fees, and other expenses.
Estimated costs for first misdemeanor DUI conviction:
Fine (minimum): $390 or more
Penalties (typical): $780
Vehicle tow/storage: $187
15-week alcohol education classes: $500
Victim restitution fund: $100
DMV licensing re-issue fee: $125
Booking, fingerprinting, and photo fee: $156
Auto insurance rate increase: $7,424 over a ten year period
Attorney fees: $2,500
= $12,162
Additional potential costs:
Up to 48 hours in jail, maybe more
Lost work time and wages—or losing your job entirely
Medical costs
Vehicle or property damage
Transportation costs during a 4-month license suspension
Cost of an ignition interlock device if required by the court
Other court-imposed fines and fees
Civil liability
Working together as a community we can educate ourselves on the dangers of drinking and driving. We can plan ahead and make responsible choices so we can ensure everyone a safe holiday.
If you would like further information on the dangers of drinking and driving please visit www.calif.aaa.com.
LA Crime Stoppers: Partner to prevent or report crime by contacting your local Sheriff’s station. Or if you wish to remain Anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org
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