By Sharyn L. Decker
Lewis County Sirens news reporter
Troopers are trying out a new message hoping to curb celebrants from drinking and driving on St. Patricks Day, appealing to their pocketbooks instead of the risk of collision and injury.
A DUI conviction is expensive, according to the Washington State patrol.
They are calling it a $10,000 ride home.
“First time offenders can expect to pay an average cost of $10,000., Trooper Will Finn states. “By the time bail, fines, fees and insurance are paid; the costs could be more.”
And don’t forget about the time lost at work, along the toll your arrest could take on those important to you, Finn says.
It takes only minutes to make a responsible decision that could prevent a tragedy with life-lasting impacts, according to Finn.
He recommends:
• Plan ahead and designate a sober driver
• Call a taxi
• Call a sober friend to pick you up.