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What You Need to Know About Ignition Interlock Devices

Los Angeles DUI LawyerIf you’ve been charged with a DUI, you are likely wondering if you’ll be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. These devices, also called breath alcohol ignition interlock devices, don’t hamper your style as much as you might imagine. Let’s take an in-depth look at the device.

An Ignition Interlock Device Is Not The End Of The World

While an ignition interlock device sounds like a buzz kill, you shouldn’t assume that you will have to have it installed in your car because of your DUI. With a good Los Angeles DUI attorney on your side, you’ll likely be able to have your charges reduced and you may not need an ignition interlock device in your vehicle at all. Still, you’ll have more peace of mind if you know what an ignition interlock device is all about before heading into the legal proceedings.

What Is It?

An ignition interlock device is a piece of equipment placed in your car that monitors your breath to make sure you do not drink and drive. In order for you to start the vehicle, you have to blow into it to verify that you haven’t consumed alcohol. It interrupts the communication between the ignition and the starter until an acceptable supply of air is submitted that meets the device’s requirement. If a judge orders you to have one of these devices installed in your vehicle, you’ll have to schedule an appointment to have it installed by a certified company. The installation costs will not be paid for by the court or your insurance company. You’ll have to foot the bill. The typical ignition interlock device costs around $100 to install.

How It Works

Once the ignition interlock device is installed in your vehicle, you’ll have to head out to the installer’s shop about once per month to have it calibrated. When it is properly calibrated, it will be able to send all of the data that it has collected about you to the court. This typically requires an additional monthly fee as well. This fee usually falls in the range of $50 to $100. Those who are ordered to have the device installed in their vehicles should be aware that their vehicles will not start if there is alcohol detected on the breath. This is the worst case scenario. It is important to note that ignition interlock devices can be temperamental at times. Some have said that the device can produce false reads and often doesn’t work in extreme heat.

You’ll need to blow into the ignition interlock device not only to start your vehicle but also at random times while you are driving. The ignition interlock device is designed to test your sobriety while you are in the act of driving to prevent someone who is in your company from blowing into the device on your behalf. If alcohol is detected on your breath while you are driving, the ignition interlock device will make a log of the event and will read as a failed test.

DUI Lawyers Are Here To Help

If you’ve been charged with a DUI, don’t try to navigate the legal details by yourself. The ramifications are much too harsh. Reach out to Jon Artz, an experienced DUI lawyer in Los Angeles, as soon as possible to discuss your case. He’ll invest significant time and effort reviewing the specific details of your case and then help you develop a sound legal strategy. He’ll help you keep your license, avoid hefty fines and work to prevent you from having to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.

Call Jon Artz at (310) 820-1315 for a private consultation.

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