What You Need to Know About Interlock Devices

Drinking and driving is a serious problem around the world. In the United States, 28 people are killed every day by motorists driving under the influence. In an effort to cut down on these crimes, localities all over the country are turning to interlock devices. The use of interlock cups, for instance, can cut down on drinking and driving by as much as 39%. It has been estimated that there are about 150,000 interlock devices that have been installed in cars around the nation.

If you have been charged with a DUI, there are some things you can do to make having the device better. Here are some tips to help you while you have the device in your car.

1. Get a discreet model. You should be able to select your interlock device. They do not have to broadcast to the world that you are using one. You can get interlock cups that just look like you are taking a sip from your coffee when you have to blow into that. People in other cars will not know that you have an interlock cup in your car. This way you can protect your privacy while you are driving around town. No one needs to know your business and they will not know about your DUI conviction.
2. Get a reliable model. That may seem like a given but, like any technology, your interlock device may malfunction. If this happens, you need to be able to call the company and have them send a signal to your system that overrides the lock out function. It can be dangerous to be out in your car at night and be locked out of the use of your vehicle. When you are looking at interlock cups and devices, as what the company policy is for malfunctions in your system. You can save yourself the embarrassment caused when you have to call for a ride because your interlock device has malfunctioned.
3. Get a model that works quickly. There are some devices that take a long time to get a reading when you are out on the road. There are other systems that work more quickly. These “blow and go” systems will minimize the time that you spend using your interlock device. This is also another way you can protect your privacy. Less time spent blowing into your device gives people less time to see what is going on in your car.
4. Make sure your device works in all kinds of weather. When you are looking at interlock devices, make sure it will work in cold and hot weather. The last thing you need is to get stuck out at night on a super cold winter night. You should be able to get assurances from ignition interlock companies that your interlock device will operate in all kinds of weather situations.

There is a lot of false information out there about interlock cups and devices. People think they are expensive, hard to use or will void their car or truck’s warranty. First of all, interlock cups are a ot more affordable than people realize. The company that installs your equipment will train you on how to properly use it so you should not worry about not being able to get it to work. Many people think that by putting an interlock device in their car, they lose the protections from the warranty but this is just not true.

Drinking and driving, or doing drugs and driving (this includes many prescription medications) is a serious crime. You will be keeping yourself and other people safe when you have your interlock device put into your vehicle. Your discreet breathalyzer can keep you safe and out of jail. This may seem like an inconvenience but is an effective deterrent for these kinds of crimes.