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What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID), commonly known as a car breathalyzer, is typically installed in your vehicle as a legal requirement following a drunk driving offense. These devices are roughly the size of a smartphone and can be discreetly installed near the driver's seat to avoid attracting attention.
The Ignition Interlock Device comes into play when you want to start your motor vehicle. It requires you to provide a breath sample before the engine can start. Simply blow into the mouthpiece, and if your breath sample falls within the allowed limits, your car will start without any issues.
Also Read: What Happens if You Fail an Interlock Test?
How Do Interlock Devices Work?
- Device Installation:
According to DCL, ignition interlock devices are installed in your vehicle's ignition system. The ignition interlock device is installed directly into your vehicle's ignition system, requiring interaction each time you start the car. - Initial Breath Test:
To start the car, you must blow into the device's tube. The device then analyzes your breath for alcohol content [1]. - Lock-Out Feature:
If alcohol is detected above a set threshold, the vehicle will not start, and a lock-out period begins. Lock-out durations typically increase with each failed test. - Starting and Driving:
If you pass the breath test, the vehicle will start, allowing you to drive as normal. - Rolling Retests:
While driving, the device will prompt you for a rolling retest at random intervals. You must pull over to provide another breath sample within a designated timeframe. - Failure to Complete Retest:
If you do not perform the rolling retest in time, the device may trigger a honking horn or alarm to encourage you to turn off the car. - Recording and Reporting:
Any failed retests or lack of compliance may be recorded by the device and sent to the provider, which can lead to a violation of ignition interlock laws.
Ignition Interlocks Have Stopped More Than 3 Million Drunk Drivers: Study
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) announced that in-car breathalyzers have prevented drivers who are drunk from starting their vehicle over 3 million times since 2006 [2]. This milestone coincides with MADD's launch of the Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving in 2006, during which they began advocating for ignition interlocks for every drunk driver.
The data, compiled by MADD from 11 ignition interlock manufacturers, was revealed during a presentation by Frank Harris, MADD’s Director of State Government Affairs, at the Association of Ignition Interlock Program Administrators’ (AIIPA) 2019 Annual Conference in San Diego.
Drunk driving deaths have decreased by 19 percent since 2006, despite an increase in the number of drivers on the road, stated Harris. MADD attributes much of this decrease to the more than 3 million times an interlock prevented someone from driving drunk, along with the hundreds of state laws MADD has helped enact to improve the implementation of this life-saving device.
The new data indicates that ignition interlocks prevented nearly 348,000 attempts to drive drunk in 2018 alone. This marks the fourth year MADD has surveyed interlock manufacturers and released the findings, illustrating how many people could have been driving drunk if not for the interlock.
As a mother who lost her 16-year-old daughter to this preventable crime, I am horrified to learn that even after people have been arrested and ordered to use an ignition interlock, they still try to drink and drive, said MADD National President Helen Witty. Without this technology, they would be driving impaired. We have much more work to do, as we are still losing almost 11,000 people a year to drunk driving crashes.
Ignition interlock laws receive support from every major traffic safety organization, and numerous studies have shown that the devices save lives. The most recent study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that mandatory interlock laws reduce DUI deaths by 16 percent. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ignition interlock use reduces DUI recidivism by 67 percent compared to license suspension alone.
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FAQs
Are there any additional fees associated with ignition interlock devices?
Yes, in addition to installation and monthly fees, you may face charges for calibration, maintenance, and device removal. Some states also charge administrative fees for monitoring the device.
Does insurance cover the cost of an ignition interlock device?
No, insurance typically does not cover the cost of an ignition interlock device. The individual is usually responsible for all expenses related to installation, maintenance, and monitoring.
How long do I need to have an ignition interlock device installed?
The required duration for having an ignition interlock device installed varies by state and the severity of the offense, but it is usually mandated for a period ranging from six months to several years.
Can I apply for financial assistance for the cost of an ignition interlock device?
Some states offer financial assistance programs or fee waivers for individuals who cannot afford the cost of an ignition interlock device. Eligibility is typically based on income and financial hardship.
What happens if my car needs service or maintenance?
Before taking your car in for service, notify the repair shop that an ignition interlock device (IID) is installed. Service providers may need instructions to avoid setting off the IID accidentally. Some states require you to report service appointments to the IID provider.
Can someone else drive my car with an IID installed?
Someone else can drive your car with an IID installed, but they’ll need to follow the same IID requirements, including breath tests. Ensure they understand the device prompts, as any violation could affect your record.
Will my employer know I have an IID?
Your employer will know you have an IID if you drive a company vehicle that requires an IID, especially if the device is visible. However, you’re not typically required to disclose this information in a personal vehicle unless it affects job duties.
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References:
1. https://madd.org/press-release/ignition-interlocks-have-stopped-more-than-3-million-drunk-driving
2. https://www.dicindiolaw.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ignition-interlock-devices/