New Laws to Increase Ignition Lock Use against Drunk Driving
By Jim Greene
Published on October 22, 2009
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger this month signed into law two bills increasing the use of the ignition interlock device (IID) by convicted drunk drivers. They will go into effect July 1, 2010.
In four counties, first-time offenders convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) would be required to use an IID for a minimum of five months in a pilot program established by AB 91, sponsored by Assemblyman Mike Feur (D-Los Angeles). The six-year program would be conducted in Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Tulare counties. Presently, IIDs are used to monitor repeat DUI offenders.
IID Required for Restricted License
The other new law, SB 598, by State Sen. Bob Huff (R-Diamond Bar), will require repeat DUI offenders to have an IID installed in order to apply for a restricted license.
"By installing ignition interlock devices, we are making it harder for DUI offenders to get behind the wheel while intoxicated and we are working to save innocent lives," Schwarzenegger said at the signing ceremony.
Device Wired into Car's Electrical System
The IID is wired into a car's electrical system to prevent it from being started if the driver fails a breath test and to set off the horn and flashing lights if the driver fails a retest while driving.
To start the car, the DUI offender must breathe into a tube on a metering device that hangs from the dashboard. A blood alcohol content (BAC) level above a figure programmed into the system will prevent the ignition circuit from being completed. Once the car is in motion, the system requires random retests, to prevent the offender from drinking while driving. The horn and flashing lights set off by a failed test stop when the car is voluntarily turned off. If the offender does not comply, the commotion is intended to attract the attention of police.
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