SEATTLE - Drunk driving continues to be a leading killer among drivers
in the Northwest, even though the overall accident rate is falling.
Each DUI conviction can cost you nearly $10,000 and time in jail.
"With the festivities of New Year's Eve upon us, people need to be
especially concerned about the dangers of mixing drinking with driving,"
said Dick Doane, research analyst for the Washington Traffic Safety
Commission.
From 1993 to 2001, 55 people were killed in alcohol-related car accidents
between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day, according to the commission.
That's one person killed every 35 hours during those nine-day periods.
Furthermore, nearly two-thirds of those deaths (63.6 percent) occurred
between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m.
"It can seem like choosing to drink only affects you," said Karl Newman,
NW Insurance Council president. "But when you combine alcohol and driving,
you create a lethal mix that can ruin, not only your life, but the lives
of others."
WTSC reported that about two-thirds of the victims were younger than
41, and nearly 90 percent of victims were male (48 out of 55). If convicted
of a DUI, you may have to purchase SR-22 high-risk insurance for three
years. SR-22 insurance is generally much more costly than preferred
risk insurance - often $500 to $1,000 more per year for each of the
compulsory three years.
Driving under the influence can hit you in the wallet as well. A first-time
offense can cost you:
- 90-day license suspension
- At least one day in jail or 15-day electronic home monitoring
- More than $8,000 in fines and court fees
- An ignition interlock ordered by a judge.
With the holidays quickly approaching, the NW Insurance Council offers
these tips to help you, your friends and family stay safe while on the
road:
- Consider not drinking at all
- Don't drink and drive
- If you do drink, have a designated driver
- Call a taxi
- Call a friend or relative to pick you up
- Stay at a nearby hotel
Call the NW Insurance Council at (800) 664-4942 and ask for two free
brochures: Drunk Driving: A Killer We Can Stop and Under 21?
You Don't Have To Be Buzzed To Be Busted.
NW Insurance Council is a nonprofit, consumer education organization
funded by member insurance companies.
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