DUI and Ignition Interlock Devices - Understanding Your Options
If you are found guilty of DUI or refuse a chemical test, an Ignition Interlock Program will likely be mandated as part of your sentence. The length of this program varies based on how many prior convictions there have been against you.
An experienced impaired driving lawyer can be invaluable when navigating this complex process. This article will give an overview of the program and your options.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is a breathalyzer for car ignitions that prevents users from starting their vehicles if alcohol has been present on their breath. While these devices can be expensive to install and maintain, an Ignition Interlock Device could save lives.
Once an offender has been found guilty of DUI or refusal, they are typically required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) for an agreed-upon period, depending on their BAC level and prior convictions.
While driving, drivers will be asked to blow into an IID at random times during each driving session; these tests are called rolling retests. If an IID detects alcohol consumption from the driver, it may record a violation and alert him or her about it - an offense which often incurs extra court appearances and penalties; additionally, servicing and calibrating can add further costs.
How Does an Ignition Interlock Device Work?
An IID, or alcolock, is a car breathalyzer connected to your ignition system that requires you to provide a breath sample before starting the engine and will not start up if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds set limits. Some ignition interlock devices also prompt you periodically during your drive for rolling retests; such devices provide added safety while driving.
Upon failing a rolling retest, your device will notify you to pull over and take a new breath test. Failing another rollback or asking someone else to breathe into the device for you could lead to penalties including additional license suspension time.
Your IID should be serviced and calibrated at an approved service center on an ongoing basis - typically every 30, 60, or 90 days. This calibration process helps ensure accurate readings are being taken by the device without misinterpreting your breaths - something often encountered with these devices.
What Are the Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices in Canada?
Ignition interlock devices are required in many Canadian jurisdictions for drivers convicted of alcohol-related driving offenses. They help drivers keep their jobs and fulfil family or professional responsibilities that require driving safely and responsibly.
Participation in an impaired driving education or treatment program as part of their court-imposed penalty typically results in being banned from driving for at least one year after conviction, as well as mandatory completion of such program as part of their punishment.
All participants are required to schedule regular maintenance and downloads with their service provider for maintenance and downloads of device data, failing which your participation in the program could be extended or terminated. If you have a medical condition which prevents you from meeting program requirements, proof must be provided along with written documentation from a doctor as proof. Under certain conditions early cancellation of an ignition interlock device could also be eligible.
How Can I Get an Ignition Interlock Device?
Your eligibility requirements depend on the law and program in your state. Since these can differ significantly, Intoxalock employs state specialists who know how to interpret these laws for your case - they'll also help navigate any loopholes or technicalities that might help avoid mandatory ignition interlock device requirements.
An Ignition Interlock Device, or IID, will likely be necessary if you have been found guilty of impaired driving and ordered to participate in the Ignition Interlock Conduct Review Program - this allows first-time offenders to shorten their suspension period by using this program.
An IID requires you to blow into it both prior to starting your vehicle and at random intervals during driving - known as rolling retests - in order to pass. Failure can vary by state; in case you don't, however, IID won't necessarily shut off your car; rather you must pull over safely and await another test before continuing driving.