An ignition interlock device is a common penalty imposed on people who are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. They may be imposed on first-time offenders as well as repeat DUI offenders. They can be complicated and costly.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI, contact our Columbus DUI attorneys at Luftman, Heck & Associates. We can evaluate your case and help you avoid the harshest DUI punishments. Contact us at (614) 500-3836 to schedule an appointment today.
1. What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a device that is installed in your vehicle and acts as a breathalyzer. You are required to breathe into the device in order for your car to start. If your BAC is above a 0.02, your engine will not start. You can typically blow into the breathalyzer again after five minutes and then again after 30 minutes if you are locked out because of your BAC. If your BAC is above 0.02, your probation officer will be notified.
The device also has a program where it will randomly turn on periodically while the car is in motion having the driver blow again into the breathalyzer to ensure that they initially blew into the device rather than another, sober individual.
2. Who is Eligible for an IID?
Anyone who has been convicted of a DUI may be eligible to install an IID instead of dealing with a lengthy license suspension. Even a first-time DUI conviction can result in up to three years of license suspension. That time can be reduced with the installation of an IID. Second and subsequent DUI convictions may result in a mandatory IID installation.
3. How is The Device Installed?
The ignition interlock device must be installed by a certified company in the state of Ohio. The device is installed near the steering wheel and is often attached to the dash. The device can be accessed prior to driving as well as while the car is in motion.
4. How Much Will it Cost?
Installation fees range from $200-300 along with a monthly maintenance cost of $100-200.
5. Do False Positives Happen?
While, IIDs are usually accurate, there are several factors that can cause a false positive. Mouthwash can cause a false positive since it contains alcohol that can stay on your mouth. If you rinse with mouthwash, you should wait at least 10 minutes and rinse your mouth with water before blowing into the ignition interlock device. Spicy foods can also cause a false positive. When spicy foods are digested, they produce methane gas, which can imitate alcohol vapor and cause a false positive. To prevent this, you can take an antacid. Certain medications and medical conditions can also result in false positives.
If your ignition interlock device does malfunction, you should contact your service provider right away in order to fix your device.
How a Columbus DUI Lawyer Can Help
If you have been charged with a DUI, our attorneys at Luftman, Heck & Associates can work with you to see if you are eligible for an ignition interlock device in Columbus so that you might avoid a lengthy license suspension. Contact us today at (614) 500-3836 to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
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