Lawmakers nationwide have spent significant investments in the past couple of years to crack down on incidents of drunk driving. One methods that has been used and shown to effectively prevent drivers from getting behind the wheel impaired is installing ignition interlock devices (IID). These work similar to breathalyzers, preventing a car from starting if the driver’s BAC reading is too high.
What is an ignition interlock device?
If a driver has an IID installed in their vehicle, it will be hard wired to their engine’s ignition system. Before starting the car, the driver must blow into the device. Using infrared sensors, the amount of alcohol measured on the driver’s breath will indicate their blood alcohol content. If the BAC reading is over a preset limit, the device will prevent the car from starting. This information may also be reported to local law enforcement. If the driver’s BAC reading is below the allowed amount, the car will start but require that the driver pull over at designated points for additional testing.
Since IIDs are hard to trick, anti-DWI organizations and law enforcement consider these devices an effective means to combat drunk driving. They are considered so worthwhile that some convicted of drunk driving may find themselves required to install this device on their vehicles as part of their punishment.
Since many individuals convicted of DWI are repeat offenders, Texas law mandates an IID will be installed for:
- First time DWIs with aggravating factors such as a high BAC
- Two or more DWI convictions at any time in the driver’s life
While it may not seem like a bad thing to have an IID installed, the biggest toll will be on the driver’s finances. The driver must pay for the cost of installation, renting, reporting, and maintenance of the device. Depending on how long the judge orders that the device be installed for, this can amount to significant amounts of money being paid in order to drive this vehicle.
There are considerable consequences that can result from a DWI conviction. If you are facing these charges, you need a DWI attorney that will relentlessly pursue your defense. Consistently ranked one of the top lawyers in Dallas, you can trust the defense that The Law Offices of Deandra M. Grant can provide.