First time warning costs more than $200

A word of caution to everyone out there who might be thinking that a $200 fine isn't too bad for a first time warning. Read the fine print! A good friend just received a first time warning the other day. When it is all said and done that $200 fine grew to just over $700 in total cost.

That three day driving prohibition and the vehicle impound adds up to some big dollars.

ICBC will want $200 for the penalty, $250 for a licence reinstatement fee and $31 for a new two year licence - total $481.

The towing and impound cost a total of $224 as the three day impound quickly turns into five days of storage at approx. $20/day and the basic tow charge of $79 grows quickly once you add the dolly charge of $25, the fuel surcharge and of course the HST.

Grand total: $705 plus change.

Everyone is getting a piece of the pie. This was quite an eye-opener for sure. On the ICBC website you can view an estimate of costs to confirm these numbers. The $600 they cite for the first time warning came up a little short for sure.

Whether or not you agree with the new legislation or what would appear to be a cash grab by the government - you have been warned by someone who knows.


Michelle LaFleche