IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICE FOLLOWING DUI CONVICTION
The Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is required for repeat DUI offenders. It is optional for first time offenders if they want to get a restricted driver's license that allows unlimited driving privileges. The IID is installed inside the vehicle, near the driver's seat, and is directly connected to the engine's ignition system. It works as a breathalyzer, measuring the alcohol in a person's system. If the person blows into the IID and it detects alcohol the vehicle will not start. The IID may also require you to blow into the device while you are driving. If alcohol is detected while driving, the device will blow the horn to signal the driver to pull over and turn the engine off.
However, the vehicle not starting due to the IID detecting alcohol will not be your biggest problem. The data that is received from the breath sample will be transmitted to the Court and/or the DMV. If the IID detects alcohol the driver may then be found in violation of a Court order and/or the terms and conditions of their probation if they were ordered not to drive a motor vehicle with any measurable amount of alcohol. You could also see your driver's license get suspended.
HOW LONG MUST THE IID REMAIN INSTALLED?
How long the Ignition Interlock Device must remain in your vehicle also depends on how many prior offenses and types of prior offenses that you have. For example, an IID following a 2nd DUI offense, with 1 prior misdemeanor conviction, must remain installed for 1 year and an IID following a 3rd offense, with 2 misdemeanor convictions, must remain installed for 3 years. CONTACT our office if you have specific questions about how long you will need to keep the IID installed in your vehicle.
OTHER IID RULES
Commercial drivers licenses are not eligible for an IID restricted license. A commercial driver must give up their commercial license and obtain a regular Class C license in order to get an IID restricted license. If you refused to submit to a breath or blood test following a DUI arrest your license will be suspended for 1, 2, or 3 years (depending on how many prior offenses you have) and you are ineligible for an IID restricted license until the refusal suspension is over.
If you have an IID installed you are allowed to drive without limitation. This differs from the restricted license available for first time offenders which allows you to drive to/from work and to/from DUI classes.
CONTACT OUR OFFICE TODAY
If you are facing DUI charges, CONTACT our office today for a free and confidential consultation. DUI Lawyer Robert D. Berglund will personally return your call to discuss your case and explain the driver's license consequences to you. Do not delay if you were arrested and your license was confiscated by the arresting officers. You only have 10 days to contact DMV to request an Administrative Per Se hearing or else your driver's license will automatically be suspended 30 days from the arrest date. CONTACT Berglund Law Office, P.C. today.
