FOR LAWYERS

Ignition Interlock Devices: A Deeper Look

By
attorneyatlaw
/
March 23, 2021

Installation of an ignition interlock device may be one of many penalties issued by a court for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI). Often, if an ignition interlock device is part of a DUI conviction, the defendant is responsible for installation costs. But what are ignition interlock devices? And why are courts issuing them to DUI defendants?

An ignition interlock device is a small, handheld breathalyzer approximately the size of a remote control. It typically consists of a mouthpiece, unit, relay cord, and sometimes a camera. 

The purpose of an ignition interlock device is to prevent the driver from turning on their car if they are under the influence of alcohol. These devices accomplish this by preventing the car’s ignition from activating unless the ignition interlock device is deactivated. There are three general types of ignition interlock devices: blow-inhale-blow, straight blow, and blow and hum.

The blow and hum ignition interlock device requires the user to blow into it and hum for a certain period of time before deactivating. The straight blow requires a forceful expulsion of breath in order to trigger the device. Finally, the blow-inhale-blow system requires the user to exhale, inhale, and exhale again before deactivating. 

If any of these devices detect alcohol, typically equivalent to a 0.02% BAC or a single drink, then the device will lock the user out of starting their vehicle. These lockouts are typically temporary for 30 minutes but some states also allow conditions to be imposed for a permanent lockout. 

If a defendant required to use an ignition interlock device chooses to ignore the court’s order, things get considerably worse. Failing to use an ignition interlock device can take several forms including:

  • Removing the device
  • Not installing the device on all vehicles the defendant uses
  • Borrowing a friend’s vehicle to avoid the device
  • Never installing the device in the first instance

All of these are considered very poor moves. While they may temporarily create some convenience, the penalties for failing to obey a court order quickly outweigh any temporary benefit. Defendants can be fined thousands of dollars, receive even longer suspension of driving privileges, have your vehicle impounded, receive a felony charge, or be imprisoned. Additionally, because installation of an ignition interlock device is a court order, failing to obey it, whether intentional or not, may also qualify as contempt of court and result in a contempt charge.

The best way to avoid complications and difficulty with an ignition interlock device is to avoid a DUI conviction in the first place. If you have been charged with a DUI or if you would like to appeal the requirement for an ignition interlock device, contact an attorney who can help you explore your options and advocate zealously on your behalf. 

Ask a Lawyer

Ask your own question and get advice from expert attorneys
Ask Question

Featured DUI Law Lawyers

The Thompson Law Firm, LLC

41 years in practice
Adoption, Birth Injury, Child Custody, Child Support, Criminal Defense
View Profile

Schultz Law Firm, LLC

17 years in practice
Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence, DUI Law
View Profile

Strom Law Firm, LLC

27 years in practice
Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence, DUI Law
View Profile

Richardson Law Firm P.C.

12 years in practice
Hair Relaxers Lawsuit, Mass Tort, Personal Injury, Rideshare Lawsuits, Tepezza Lawsuit
View Profile

Adam Rieth - Injury Attorney

10 years in practice
Auto Accidents, Brain Injury, Motorcycle Accidents, Personal Injury, Truck Accidents
View Profile

Vanguard Attorneys

12 years in practice
Auto Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Personal Injury, Truck Accidents, Wrongful Death
View Profile

Contact AttorneyAtLaw.com

Are you looking for an attorney? Do you have questions about a legal case you are facing? Contact us now and we will put you in touch with a lawyer for free.
Attorney At Law is changing how clients connect with lawyers. By providing an innovative platform to lawyers who want to expand their practice’s reach, AAL is bringing law practices into the future.
6142 Innovation Way
Carlsbad, California 92009
© 2023 Attorney at Law | All rights reserved
Some of the content of this website may be considered attorney advertising under the rules of certain jurisdictions. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
crossmenuchevron-upchevron-down linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram