Costs and consequences of driving impaired

Costs and Consequences of a Drunk Driving Conviction
If BAC is below .17 and this is a first offense:

• Up to $500 fine
• Up to 93 days in jail
• Up to 360 hours of community service
• Up to 180 days license suspension
• 6 points on a driver's license

If BAC is .17 or higher and this is a first offense:

• Up to $700 fine
• Up to 180 days in jail
• Up to 360 hours of community service
• Up to one year license suspension
• 6 points on a driver's license
• Mandatory completion of an alcohol treatment program
• Ignition interlock use and compliance after 45 days license suspension is required to receive a restricted driver's license. Convicted drunk drivers have limited driving privileges, are prohibited from operating a vehicle without an approved and properly installed ignition interlock device, and are responsible for all installation and upkeep costs for the device.

Anyone who refuses a breath test the first time is given an automatic one-year driver's license suspension. For a second refusal within seven years, the suspension is two years.

Convicted drunk drivers are subject to a $1,000 penalty for two consecutive years under the Driver Responsibility Act, for a total of $2,000 in additional costs.

Penalties for operating under the influence of cannabis
The penalties are the same as those imposed for operating under the influence of alcohol. These penalties can include: • Up to 93 days in jail • Up to a $500 fine • License suspension • Six points on a person’s driving record

There are heightened penalties if a driver has minors in the vehicle.

Safer Alternatives
Tens of thousands of people are arrested annually in Michigan for alcohol- and drug-related driving offenses. To avoid an impaired driving arrest and the costs associated with such an arrest:

• Designate a sober driver before drinking alcohol or using drugs.
• Call a friend, cab, ride service, walk, or take the bus.
• Stay overnight.