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Ignition Interlock Devices

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a device that is installed in the vehicle dashboard of a person’s vehicle who has been required by the courts to have an ignition interlock device installed in order to drive.

How Ignition Interlock Devices Work

The ignition interlock device is connected to a vehicles starter system. The ignition interlock device can be set anywhere from .00% BAC to slightly higher levels, but typically not above .04% BAC.

Ignition interlock devices work by measuring the BAC or blood alcohol concentration also referred to as BAL or blood alcohol level of the vehicle’s driver before and during the operation of said vehicle.

If the blood alcohol concentration registered by the ignition interlock device is higher than the preprogrammed level that was set by the company that installed the ignition interlock device, the vehicle will not start. The courts in each state determine the programmed level that will be set by the company performing the installation. Typically this level will be between .02% and .04% depending on the state law.

Also at random intervals while the vehicle is in operation, the ignition interlock device will require breath samples from the vehicle operator in order for the vehicle to continue operating. If a breath sample is not provided, or the sample that is registered by the ignition interlock device exceeds the preset limit, the unit will record the occurrence, warn the driver and then start its alarm, which consist of the lights flashing, horn honking, etc.

When it is time for a breath sample, the ignition interlock device will let the driver know that a sample is required. The ignition interlock device will allow enough time for the driver to safely pull to the side of the road before the sample must be given.

Ignition Interlock Device Pro’s & Con’s

Ignition interlock devices have their proponents and opponents. Groups like MADD support the use of ignition interlock devices saying that the use of ignition interlock devices have proven to be up to 90% effective in the prevention of drunk driving.

While opponents of ignition interlock devices say that test results show the devices have numerous flaws and are not effective in reducing DUI or drunk driving incidents for first-time offenders.

One major flaw of ignition interlock devices is that items such as mouthwash will cause a vehicle not to start. Imagine you’re ready to leave for work in the morning and go out to start your vehicle, but it won’t start because it registered a BAC above the preset limit. What could cause a situation like this? Mouthwashes that most people use in the morning contain alcohol.

Ignition interlock devices were originally implemented to prevent those who were considered hardcore alcoholics from drinking and driving after having been convicted of a DUI. Current proposals would mandate ignition interlock devices for all offenders in every state, in essence treating the person who was barely over the legal limit the same as the individual who had a blood alcohol concentration of .16% or twice the legal limit.

The ignition interlock device keeps a record of the devices activity and the interlocked vehicles electrical system. This data will be downloaded each time the vehicle is taken in to be calibrated, which is typically set to 30, 60 or 90-day intervals.

If a violation is detected between service intervals, the vehicle must be taken to the ignition interlock service provider to be reset. When this happens a record of the violation will be sent to the offender’s probation officer. Depending on state laws a separate offense like this can be considered a violation of the terms of the offender’s probation, which can result in additional sanctions being imposed such as the offender’s probation being revoked.

Ignition Interlock Device Costs

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. 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.

State Ignition Interlock Laws

Ignition interlock devices are mandatory for all offenders in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Washington, Louisiana and Illinois.

Ignition interlock devices are mandatory for all offenders who reinstate their license in the state of Oregon.

Ignition interlock devices are mandatory for all high BAC and repeat offenders in the following states: Hawaii, Florida, Kansas, Virginia, West Virginia and New Hampshire.

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

Ignition interlock devices are 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 have ignition interlock laws: Alabama, South Dakota, Maine and Vermont.

Where Do I Get An Ignition Interlock Device 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.