Ignition interlock devices may be required in some cases for drivers accused of DUI, including for felony DUI charges. For that reason, accused drivers should be familiar with what ignition interlock devices are and the requirements associated with them.
How ignition interlock devices work
An accused driver may be required to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle which will require them to blow into the ignition interlock device prior to the car’s ignition starting. The ignition interlock device will measure the blood alcohol content level of the driver’s breath and the vehicle will only start if the driver’s blood alcohol level is below the allowable limit. Ignition interlock devices are essentially breathalyzer tests installed on the driver’s vehicle.
When an ignition interlock device may be required
Ignition interlock devices may be required for a felony DUI charges and in other circumstances including:
- Multiple drunk driving convictions;
- A DUI offense that caused injury;
- Driving under the influence with a minor in the car at the time of the incident; and
- If the driver has an elevated blood alcohol content level.
Ignition interlock devices can be costly to install and maintain and can be a penalty assigned to the accused driver in addition to other potential penalties including license suspension, fines and jail time. Drivers accused of driving under the influence may need to defend themselves against both administrative consequences and criminal penalties. Accused drivers need to be familiar with how to defend themselves against drunk driving charges to help mitigate the potential penalties and consequences they are facing associated with drunk driving charges.