Ignition Interlock Devices (IID’s)

About one-third of all DUI arrests each year are made by people who have been convicted previously of driving under the influence. Considering the fact that 50 to 75 percent of those whose licenses are suspended or revoked as the result of driving under the influence continue to drive without their license, revoking a license is not always enough. Today, many states are requiring that Ignition Interlock Devices (IID) are installed as a penalty for drivers convicted of driving under the influence, especially repeat offenders. Most U.S. states now permit judges to order the installation of an IID particularly for repeat offenders. In some states, even first offenders may receive mandated installation of the Ignition Interlock Device.

Protection Against Drunk Driving

A breath alcohol ignition interlock device is a mechanism somewhat like a Breathalyzer and is installed in a vehicle’s dashboard. As protection against drunk driving, before the vehicle can be started, the driver must breathe into the device. If the analyzed result is over the blood alcohol concentration, which is generally, .02% to .04% the vehicle simply will not start. After the engine has been started, the Ignition Interlock Device (IID) will require another breath sample. The reason another test is required soon after the engine has started is to keep the driver from letting someone else breath into the device.

Exceeding the Ignition Interlock Sample

Once the IID is administered, if the breath sample exceeds the ignition interlock devices blood alcohol level, the device logs the event, warns the driver and then starts up an alarm, which usually includes lights flashing or horn honking, until the ignition is turned off. A common fallacy is that interlock devices turn off the engine if alcohol is detected, but that isn’t true. It can’t turn off the ignition since that would create an unsafe driving situation.

How Do Ignition Interlock Devices Work?

Modern ignition interlock devices use an ethanol type fuel cell as its sensor. The fuel cell sensor is an electrochemical device in which alcohol undergoes a chemical reaction that generates an electric current. The current is then measured and converted to an alcohol equivalent reading. A log is printed out each time the device’s sensors are calibrated, usually at 30, 60, or 90-day intervals. Periodic calibration is performed using the alcohol/gas mixture. The cost of installation, maintenance and calibration are paid by the accused, which is generally about $75.00 per month. Although fuel cell technology is not as accurate as the technology used in breathalyzers, they are less expensive and more specific for alcohol.

The DUI attorney’s at Straight DUI are experts when it comes to all aspects associated with DUI offenses and IIDs and will support you by taking you step by step through the process. Let a qualified DUI attorney at Straight DUI help you with all the intricacies involved. Contact us today if you have been arrested on a DUI charge.