Think Before You Drink

Tara Parenteau

One month ago, a 21 year old girl had her life taken from her without any warning.
Bethany McAllister, of North Troy, was taking an evening walk with her friend Alyssa Burns. Police say a drunk driver came up behing both girls and struck them. Bethany got thrown into a telephone poll and died almost immediately. Her friend suffered serious injuries but survived. Police then said the intoxicated driver left the scene of the accident to cause another one a few towns away.
Drinking and driving is a serious offense that people, mostly us young adults, still don't seem to grasp. With the new year just beginning, also comes the pressure for us students to drink. For those of you new to the area, Vermont has it's penalties for disobeying the law just like any other state.
In Vermont, the first time you are caught drinking and driving, you will have your lisence suspended for a minimum of 90 days, have to complete a drug and alcohol program at your own expense, be fined up to $750, or be imprisoned for two years.
The second time you are caught, you will be fined $ 1500, be imprisoned for up to two years, or both. More programs have to be completed, as well as 200 hours of community service. This time your license will be suspended for up to 18 months.
The third time you are caught your license will be revoked for life. You will be fined up to %2500, imprisoned up to five years, and have to serve 400 hours of community service. One hundred consecutive hours of imprisonment must be served as well.
Drinking and driving is just not worth your time, future or money.
(laws taken from dui.drivinglaws.org)