One of the most confusing and stressful situations a driver in BC can face is receiving an Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP). This occurs when a police officer has reasonable grounds to believe that a driver’s blood alcohol level is above the legal limit of 0.05. The consequences of an IRP can be severe, including fines, licence suspension, and even vehicle impoundment.

IRPs have strict timelines for you to dispute or appeal, so you must act quickly and seek legal advice from a qualified BC criminal defence lawyer like Jerry Steele. With his expertise in IRP cases, he can help you understand your options and carefully guide you through the process.

Fighting an Immediate Roadside Prohibition

If you are facing an IRP, there are options for disputing or appealing the prohibition. These include requesting a review with the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles or applying for an appeal hearing at the Office of the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles. Jerry Steele can assist you in preparing for these processes and representing your case.

Disputing or appealing an IRP does not guarantee a successful outcome, but having a skilled and experienced lawyer on your side is what you need for a shot at defending your rights and, if not thoroughly clearing your name of the IRP, at least reducing the severity of the consequences.

Understanding IRP Consequences

Importantly, IRPs are not considered criminal offences. Instead, they are administrative penalties imposed by the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles. However, they do carry serious consequences that can affect your driving privileges and financial well-being.

If given an IRP, you will likely face a 90-day licence suspension and a fine ranging from $500 to $4,000, depending on the number of previous offences. In addition, your vehicle may be impounded for a period of time, and you may be required to complete a responsible driver program or have an ignition interlock device installed in your car if it’s your second offence within the last five years.

The Cost of an IRP

The total cost of an IRP can vary depending on the specifics of your unique case, but here are some of the fees associated with an immediate roadside prohibition:

• $250 driver’s licence reinstatement fee
• $500 fine
• $700-1000 in towing and storage costs
• $930 mandatory participation in the Responsible Driver Program
• If you have to take part in the Ignition Interlock Program, this will cost $1500 and up

Why You Need a Lawyer for an IRP

People are often tempted to fight these cases on their own. Because you only have seven days to appeal an IRP, you may not have enough time to gather evidence and build a solid case. Additionally, the legal processes and terminology involved can be complex and overwhelming for someone without BC legal expertise.

A skilled lawyer specializing in IRPs will know how to navigate the legal system and present your case effectively. They will also have experience negotiating with the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles for reduced consequences or even dismissal of the IRP.

Call Jerry Steele: Appeal Your IRP

To give yourself a good chance at avoiding the costly consequences of an IRP, seek legal representation as soon as possible. Jerry Steele has years of experience in successfully defending clients against IRPs and other driving-related offences. Call now: 778-700-0012.