Ignition Interlock Device Designed to Prevent Drunk Driving
By Jim Greene
Published on October 16, 2009
Due to technology and stricter DUI laws, many convicted drunk drivers in California have to pass a sobriety breath test every time they get behind the wheel.
After being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), repeat offenders can be required to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in their cars. With the IID in place, a vehicle will not start until the offender blows into a tube on a meter attached to the dashboard and tests for a blood alcohol content (BAC).
IID Incorporated into Car's Electrical System
The IID is spliced into a car's ignition circuit. The circuit cannot be completed until a switch in the IID is activated by a successful breath test. Any alcohol on the offender's breath will create a chemical reaction inside the IID meter that converts to a small electric current, the power of which indicates the BAC.
To ensure the drunk driving offender isn't drinking while driving, random retests may be programmed into the system. If the offender fails the retest, the vehicle becomes disabled and unable to drive normally.
Device Can Record Testing, Tampering
The IID also has a record-keeping function. Offenders are required to have it serviced at regular intervals, usually monthly. During servicing, the record is downloaded and made available to the authorities. It tracks the times and results of tests, and can detect any attempts to bypass or interfere with the system.
On top of any fines or court costs resulting from a DUI convictions, offenders in California can expect to pay about $60-$75 or more per month to lease an IID, as well as paying $25-$100 or more to have it installed and additional fees for periodic service.
Orange County drunk driving lawyer Myles L. Berman has extensive experience defending felony DUI in Los Angeles and other DUI issues in LA and the surrounding areas.
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