When to get an Ignition Interlock?

If you’re age 21 or older, and have a clean driving record, you probably aren’t subject to an ignition interlock device in your state. The conviction of drinking and driving after getting behind the wheel because of impaired reasoning could still result in a jail sentence or a hefty fine, even if the DUI was detected through an ignition interlock test. If this applies to you, then it may be time to consider getting an ignition interlock device installed in your car so that even when you are sober, you can’t drink and drive. The consequences of getting caught drinking and driving can be devastating. If you get caught drunk driving as a result of an alcohol-related arrest or conviction, your license will likely be suspended for at least two years. This doesn’t just affect your ability to get a job - it can prevent you from becoming eligible for public housing or any other government assistance programs for several years after your release from prison or jail. Get an ignition interlock device now before it is too late.

What is an ignition interlock device?

An ignition interlock is a device that requires you to take a breath test before each vehicle start. If your breath tests are above the legal limit, an ignition interlock device will prevent you from starting your car and operating your motor vehicle until your breath has passed the required level. The device is usually an electronic device that is triggered when you turn on your car and blocks the starting circuit until you pass the required breath test. An ignition interlock device is not a preemptive measure. It is meant to be used as a corrective measure after you have been stopped for a traffic violation or convicted of a DUI. The device can be used as a treatment, as well as a preventive, to address the underlying alcohol-related problem. Every state is different, so be sure to check your local laws before installing an interlock device.

How Does an Ignition Interlock Device Work?

Most ignition interlock devices are set up so that you have to touch a button to start the engine. The device will then keep a record of the times that you start and stop the engine, which is used to check your blood alcohol content (BAC) level. There are some devices that do not require you to touch the button each time you start the car. These are known as “smart” or “sensor” ignition interlock devices. These devices use electronic devices to record your driving habits and use this data to detect if you are drinking and driving. You must not have a BAC of 0.08% or higher to operate a smart ignition interlock device. The rest of the time, you must touch the ignition interlock button to start the engine and complete a breath test.

Should I Install an Ignition Interlock Device in My Car?

If you have been drinking or using drugs and have been driving, it is highly likely that you will get behind the wheel while under the influence. In fact, studies show that between 75 and 90% of people who drink alcohol will get behind the wheel after consuming a drink. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of getting in a car under the influence. First, it is important to be able to recognize when you are affected by alcohol. Heavy drinking can be visually apparent - you may look like you have been drinking more than you have, but can also be cognitively apparent - you may have a hard time driving safely because you are so focused on getting yourself and your car safely to the destination.

When is the right time to get an Interlock device?

Getting an ignition interlock device as soon as possible is worth the effort. The sooner you get it, the less exposure you will have to the consequences of a prior mistake. The installation costs are also more expensive than waiting until you are older to get the device, so the price isn’t necessarily higher if you get it sooner. Additionally, the mandatory sentencing period doesn’t start until you actually install the ignition interlock device in your car. This means if you are required to have an ignition interlock installed for a duration of 6 months, you can’t wait it out and assume it will expire after 6 months.

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