Ignition Interlock Devices

The ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is installed in a drunk driving offender’s car. This device is used to eliminate the problem of repeat offenders. A California DUI / DWI attorney will be able to provide more information on the viability of this device as an alternative sentence.

The device is linked to the car’s ignition. In order for a driver to start the vehicle, the driver must blow into the breathalyzer. If the breathalyzer registers acceptable blood alcohol content (BAC) levels, then the engine will start. If there are traces of alcohol, the car will not start. Once the car is running, “rolling re-tests” may be required every 15 minutes to one hour.

If the motorist fails to perform the test when prompted, or if the motorist’s BAC has risen to an unacceptable level, the car will stop. This rolling test is meant to ensure that a sober person does not do the initial test just to get the car started. In California it is crime to attempt to assist anyone in disabling an ignition interlock, or to blow into the device to start the vehicle for another driver.

California has been forging ahead in the use of the ignition interlock devices. Recent DUI legislation that became effective on September 20, 2005, makes it mandatory for a repeat offender to have the ignition interlock device installed in his or her car as part of the court’s sentence.

Judges have the discretion to order the installation of the ignition interlock device in the car of any DUI / DWI offender whether they are repeat offenders or first-time offenders. This means that any time a judge deems it appropriate, he or she may order the mandatory installation of the ignition interlock device in any vehicle the offender drives. A California criminal defense attorney will make sure that the interlock ignition device is used only when appropriate.

Most commonly, the ignition interlock device is used when a person has refused to submit to a post-arrest chemical test or when the results of a chemical test registered a BAC of .15 percent or greater. A person who is arrested for driving on a suspended license that was suspended as a result of a drunk driving conviction will be required to install the ignition interlock device.

Of primary importance to people arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol in California is that ignition interlock devices are a great bargaining chip for DUI / DWI lawyers. A qualified California DUI criminal defense lawyer will be able to use an ignition interlock device as a tool for negotiating a plea bargain with negotiated consequences when the facts allow for it.

The ignition interlock device can be helpful whenever safety and alcohol-free driving is important. For example, parents may use the device to ensure that their teenage children are not drinking and driving. The device can also be used in cases of divorce or separation when one parent is concerned that the other parent may be driving while intoxicated with children in the car.

The California ignition interlock leader is Smart Start of California, part of the Texas-based national ignition interlock pioneer, Smart Start. If you have a need for an ignition interlock device for any reason, Smart Start can supply it. For additional information about ignition interlock devices, or to schedule an appointment, contact Smart Start headquarters toll-free at (800) 880-3394.