DUI Ignition Interlock Device
Drunk driving is a serious problem throughout the nation. There are many DUI penalties that are used to deter people from drinking and driving in the future such as jail time, probation, driver’s license suspension, and fines. Yet another tool used to prevent someone from driving under the influence in the future is the DUI ignition interlock device.A DUI ignition interlock device is a small device that works similar to a breathalyzer test. In order to start the ignition on your car, your blood alcohol content (BAC) must not be over a preset limit. Though the limits vary from state to state, they are typically between .02 and .04 percent. If your BAC is over this limit, your car won’t start and the court will be notified.
The device is typically installed in the glove compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. In order to take the test, you must blow around 1.5 liters of air into the device.
Some DUI ignition interlock devices require the driver to take a rolling test, or re-test. This means that after the car has started, you must take the test again at random intervals. This keeps the driver from having a sober friend take the test in order to get the vehicle to start. It also deters the driver from drinking alcohol once he or she has begun driving.
Most states only require an offender to install an ignition interlock device in his or her car if he or she has a prior DUI conviction. This allows habitual offenders to have their license reinstated and keeps them from drinking and driving.
The fees for the DUI ignition interlock device installation must be paid by the offender. The installation costs vary from state to state and may range from $50 to $200. There is also a monthly rental fee, which ranges from $50 to $100. In addition, the offender is also responsible for the costs associated with maintenance as well as downloading the data from the device.
Circumventing the DUI ignition interlock device is nearly impossible; in fact, any attempts to tamper with the device will be recorded and reported to the court.
