Important Things to Know About Ignition Interlock Devices After a DUI Conviction

A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) carries many harsh penalties. These include high fines, possible jail time, probation, and more. Certain individuals are also required to install an interlock ignition device in their vehicle to ensure that they do not commit the offense in the future. While these devices may seem like nothing more than an inconvenience, they can become a real burden, impacting your wallet and your daily routine. Below, our Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer explains the most important things to know about these devices.

How Do Ignition Interlock Devices Work?

Ignition interlock devices, sometimes also referred to as car breathalyzers, are small devices that connect to the ignition system in your vehicle. You must blow into the device before starting the ignition. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is more than the limit set, your vehicle will not start. In most cases, the preset limit on ignition interlock devices is 0.025 BAC.

As you are driving, you will have to provide rolling retests, which are random breath samples. The purpose of rolling retests is to ensure that no one else first took the test for you. If you do not pass a rolling retest, the result will be recorded on the device. The device will also warn you to pull over. Alarms will sound and lights are activated until you turn off your vehicle.

How Much Does an Ignition Interlock Device Cost?

After a DUI conviction, you are responsible for all costs associated with an ignition interlock device. The initial installation fee is typically between $70 and $150. In addition to this initial fee, you will also have to pay monthly calibration and monitoring fees. If the device breaks, you will have to pay for the repair and replacement costs. After the device has been in your vehicle for the required amount of time, you will also have to pay the removal fees.

The above costs can become exorbitant. You may also be responsible for court costs, fines, license reinstatement fees, and increased insurance premiums. All of this contributes to a DUI conviction becoming very expensive.

Tips for Driving with an Ignition Interlock Device

Aside from the cost, ignition interlock devices can make life very difficult. The following tips can help you plan for driving with one of these devices:

• After blowing into the device, you will have to wait several minutes for it to analyze the results. Plan to leave a few minutes early to account for the time.
• You only have a few minutes to provide a rolling retest so pull over as quickly as possible.
• Prepare to have the device calibrated every 30 to 60 days to ensure the results are accurate.

Call Our DUI Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale Today 

The best way to avoid the requirement of an ignition interlock device is to have a good defense to the charges. At Haber Blank, our Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer can provide the defense that can help you avoid all penalties associated with a conviction. Call us today at 954-767-0300 or contact us online to request a consultation and to get the legal help you need.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.193.html