Ignition Interlock Device

Ignition Interlock Devices and How They are Used in a DUI Offense

How does an ignition interlock device function?

For individuals who have been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), the journey to regaining the privilege of driving involves a tool; the ignition interlock device. This advanced equipment serves as a protector of safety and a symbol of accountability for those who have made mistakes. Here is an overview of how an ignition interlock device works, covering its components, technical details, and legal requirements related to its usage.

Essential Features & Parts

An ignition interlock device combines features and parts to ensure that only a sober individual can operate the vehicle;
Breathalyzer; Prior to starting the vehicle, the driver needs to blow into the device. The breathalyzer component, usually equipped with a fuel cell sensor, assesses the alcohol level in the breath sample.

Ignition Control: Directly linked to the vehicle’s ignition system, this device permits engine activation only if the detected alcohol concentration is, below a threshold.
Random Tests: To uphold sobriety, the device requests breath tests during each journey.
Data Recording: Thorough records of breath test outcomes are kept when the engine starts, and any attempts to interfere with the device are meticulously recorded.

When users interact with an ignition interlock device, they go through a series of steps:

  1. Initial Breath Test: Users blow into the breathalyzer’s mouthpiece, and a user friendly interface shows if the breath sample meets the required criteria.
  2. Starting the Vehicle: After passing the test, users can start their vehicle as usual by turning the key or pressing the start button.
  3. Compliance: While driving, prompts are given for tests to ensure that the driver hasn’t consumed alcohol since the initial test.
  4. Issues and Records: If a driver fails a retest or if any tampering is detected, the system prevents the car from starting. Logs these occurrences.

Technical Insights

The components of an ignition interlock device seamlessly integrate with vehicle functions:

  1. Chemical Analysis: The fuel cell sensor, in the breathalyzer converts breath chemical energy, into a current to measure alcohol levels.
  2. Ignition Connection: A relay serves as a checkpoint; upon passing the breathalyzer test, it closes the circuit connecting the system to start ignition.
  3. Anti-Tampering Measures: Built in security features work to deter any attempts to bypass or misuse the system.

Efforts to bypass the system are immediately. Could trigger alerts.

Legal Obligations

The rules and oversight of ignition interlock devices vary depending on the region’s structure. Required Usage; Courts may mandate DUI offenders to install an interlock device as a condition for restoring their license. Duration of Use: Typically determined by law, the device must remain installed for a specified period, which may differ based on the seriousness of the DUI violation.

Device Certification: Regular certification, calibration, and upkeep are necessary for devices to meet standards, usually performed by authorized individuals. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Strict laws are in place to discourage tampering with or removing the device, often resulting in repercussions.

Ignition interlock devices symbolize a commitment to upholding driving practices and embracing change by individuals who once posed risks to themselves and others. Understanding the intricacy and gravity of this device allows us to recognize how it promotes a culture of driving.

Remember, ensuring vehicle and road safety goes beyond navigating roads; it’s about embarking on journeys that safeguard lives. Each time an ignition interlock device enables a start, it guides an individual back, towards a path of confident driving.

Ignition Interlock Device Prices

The overall cost of installation, calibration, and scheduled maintenance is the responsibility of the offender. An ignition interlock device will cost around $75 per month and a couple hundred dollars to be installed. Some states have programs that will subsidize the monthly cost if the offender can prove that they do not have the financial means to pay the monthly charges. But the main goal for every state is that their ignition interlock program is self sustaining since the DUI offender is required to pay the fees.

State Ignition Interlock Laws

An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all offenders in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Washington, Louisiana and Illinois.

An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all offenders who reinstate their license in the state of Oregon.

An ignition interlock device is mandatory for all high BAC and repeat offenders in the following states: Hawaii, Florida, Kansas, Virginia, West Virginia and New Hampshire.

An ignition interlock device is required for certain offenders in the following states: California, Idaho, Utah, Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Missouri, Mississippi, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Maryland.

A ignition interlock device is allowed, but not required in the following states: Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island and the District of Columbia.

The following states do not currently have ignition interlock laws: Alabama, South Dakota, Maine and Vermont.

Where do I get an ignition interlock system installed?

Upon conviction, the court will provide you with a list of ignition interlock providers who have been approved by the state. The provider that you choose to do the installation will also be the service provider for the maintenance and calibration of the ignition interlock device. Your DUI lawyer will more than likely know who offers the best service and has the most affordable prices in your county.

Additional DUI Resources
  • DUI First Offense – Detailed first offense information including punishments after a first offense DUI.
  • DUI Classes – Get signed up to complete your required DUI class online today.
  • SR22 Insurance – Learn everything you need to know about SR22 filing requirements with the DMV and find out how you can save hundreds of dollars each year on your SR22 insurance.
  • DUI Laws & Lawyers – Contact one of our DUI lawyers today to discuss your pending DUI case.
  • Bail Bond Agents – Contact an bail bond agent to get out of jail now.
  • Non-owner Insurance – If you need an SR-22 filing, but don’t own a vehicle, you need to get a non-owner policy.