Drinking and driving

How much is too much?

You probably know that blowing .08 in a breathalyzer is considered being legally impaired. But do you really know how many beers that is? Glasses of wine? Or cocktails?

Be honest: you don’t.

So why get behind the wheel even after one pint or Martini? Why risk it?

Drinking and driving starts with your first drink—so before you take that first sip, make a smart choice: designate a driver, have money for a cab, plan to call a sober friend, stay overnight or take transit.

What happens if I get caught?

The penalties for drinking and driving are big—and getting bigger.

You could be

• prohibited from driving (PDF) or
• have your vehicle impounded for 24 hours (PDF).

If you failed or refused a breathalyzer test, you’d be prohibited from driving for 90 days (PDF). You could also be charged with a Criminal Code offence.

If convicted, you would

• be prohibited from driving for at least a year and
• pay way more for car insurance.

If you drove while prohibited or suspended, your car could be impounded for a minimum of 60 days. You would also be subject to a $500 fine, jail time and more driving prohibitions.

Gambling with your car insurance

If you drive over the legal alcohol limit or under the influence of drugs, ICBC may not cover you under your Basic Autoplan.

If you crash while drinking and driving, you’re in breach of your insurance policy. That means you’re 100 per cent liable if you damage someone else’s property or injure them.

Learn more » 

Ignition interlock program

The B.C. Government is expanding the ignition interlock program (PDF) in 2009. Up to 4,000 more British Columbians whose driving records show evidence of drinking and driving will now be forced to provide breath samples every time they operate their vehicles.