The Answers to Your Questions About Ignition Interlock Devices
Has the court mandated that you install an ignition interlock device on your car due to a recent DUI conviction? Here is an overview of the ignition interlock system and how it fits into your life.
What is an ignition interlock device?
An ignition interlock is discreet breathalyzer that is wired into your car that you will be required to breath into before starting your vehicle. If your breath indicates a high blood/alcohol level, the interlock prevents the car from starting, which protects you from getting into further trouble.
Why would I get an ignition interlock installed on my car?
If you are charged with a DUI, the court might require you to have an ignition interlock installed on your car to help you learn your own alcohol limits and prevent you from getting hurt, hurting others, or getting into more legal trouble.
What happens if I don’t get an interlock installed after being mandated to?
Failure to comply with any court stipulation will result in heavier repercussions, and possibly a loss of your driving privileges altogether.
How effective is the ignition interlock?
Some DUI offenders still get behind the wheel when their license is suspended or revoked. The ignition interlock has been proven to be the most effective way to help DUI offenders make healthy choices when they aren’t in a state of mind to do so for themselves.
There is a 90% reduction in drunk driving occurrences among drivers with an ignition interlock while it is still installed. Even after the interlock is removed from a car, DUI offenders who have had the interlock on their vehicle are 39% less likely to get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol.
What does a car breathalyzer cost?
The car breathalyzer cost depends on the company who provides and maintains the device. The initial installation often ranges from $70 to $150. The monthly car breathalyzer cost is between $60 to $90 for calibration and maintenance. The DUI offender will be expected to cover this cost in order to maintain their driving privileges.
Does the car breathalyzer damage the car?
The breathalyzer is wired in under the hood and does not damage the vehicle at all. When it is time for the breathalyzer to be removed, the original wiring is restored and you won’t be able to tell that the breathalyzer was ever there.
Is there a way to trick the interlock into starting when the driver isn’t in a condition to drive?
The interlock has voice-tone and temperature gauges that make it impossible to start a car without human breath. It is possible to have someone else breath into the interlock to start the car, but the interlock will randomly require retests every few minutes while driving. If someone else starts your car but isn’t around to breath into it throughout the trip, the alarm will go off when the retest is failed until the vehicle is turned off. A person who helps an inebriated driver get behind the wheel by circumventing the breathalyzer will also be prosecuted by the law.
Have you ever had an ignition interlock installed on your vehicle? Do you have any additional information that you think should be included here? Please leave us a comment below.
