Ignition interlock devices are directly connected to the ignition system of your car. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds the state requirement, the device will prevent your car from starting. Ignition interlock devices used to be used for only special DUI cases. Today, they have become very common tools to protect road users from driving under the influence of alcohol. The laws surrounding the use of this device vary from state to state.
Using Ignition Interlock Devices
All states have laws that require the installation and use of ignition interlock devices. These laws apply mostly after a DUI charge or after committing a traffic offense under the influence of alcohol. In most cases, ignition interlock devices are used instead of a license suspension. By the way, get the best solution here to an ignition interlock causing car problems.
First Time Offenders
In total, 29 states, the District of Columbia, and 4 counties in California have a sort of laid down law for the requirement of ignition interlock devices for first-time offenders. Out of the 29 states, only 24 states, the District of Columbia, and 4 counties in California require that first-time offenders must install an ignition interlock device to drive after a post-conviction license suspension.
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)
Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) refers to the percentage of alcohol in your bloodstream. If your blood alcohol concentration is 0.10, this means that your blood contains one part alcohol for every one thousand parts. In nine states, you are only required to use an ignition interlock device as a first offender if your blood alcohol concentration is higher than 0.15 at the time of your arrest.
No Mandatory Law
Although all states require that you use an ignition interlock device as a repeat DUI offender. Just five states namely Indiana, Montana, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota do not have any mandatory laws that require that you must use ignition interlock devices in your car.
Committing In Another State
If you commit a DUI offense in another state from the one you live in, you will still be required to use an ignition interlock device as long as it is mandatory in the committing state. This is all guided by the principle of one driver, one license, one record.
Installation Of Ignition Interlock Devices
Ignition interlock devices are usually installed by third-party manufacturers. Most states will provide you with a list containing vendors you can use for installing your ignition interlock device. Once it has been installed, you are required to provide a receipt to your monitoring authority as proof that you had your device installed by an approved vendor.
Removal
For removal, you will contact the approved vendor that did the installation for you after your suspension is over. Most states have strict laws concerning the tampering of ignition interlock devices. It may attract severe fines and penalties.
All states have laws regarding the use of ignition interlock devices. They just vary from one another. For example, Arizona, California, Louisiana, and Missouri eliminate the mandatory suspension period if offenders choose to install an ignition interlock device.