How drivers prevented from driving would reach work: Implications for penalties

The validity of the assumption that loss of a driving license would result in economic hardship for most drivers was examined. Persons who drive to work were asked how they would reach work if a broken leg prevented them from driving. Only 21 per cent said they would not be able to make other travel arrangements. Of those who thought they could find other transportation, two-thirds said the alternative would cost no more than driving themselves. Less than one-fifth said the time required would be more than an additional half hour per day. The results indicate that policies and practices related to license suspension and revocation should not be based on an assumption that job loss or economic hardship would be experienced by most drivers if they were to lose their driving privileges.