Vehicle Seizures And Drunk Driving Charges
If you have been stopped and charged for drinking and driving in the province of Alberta, you have likely experienced a number of immediate consequences. Under the new provincial law Bill 26, individuals who are caught operating a motor vehicle with a BAC over .05 will experience an immediate vehicle seizure and suspension of their license. You vehicle will be towed to a municipal impound lot where it will be help for the duration that matches your over .05 offense (multiple .05 offenders experience longer suspensions).
Vehicle Seizure Periods For Impaired Driving In Alberta
Regardless of your BAC (.05-.08, or higher) the following are the durations of suspension, incremented by the number of offenses:
- First offence: 3-day vehicle seizure
- Second offence: 7-day vehicle seizure
- Third offence: 7-day vehicle seizure
The most important difference between a charge relating to blowing between .05-.08, and blowing over .08 is that the later results in a criminal charge. Obviously, this also carries heavier sentences, and the potential for time in prison.