The ignition interlock device is a mechanism that was put into effect by almost all 50 states in 2009 as a sentencing alternative for drunken drivers. The device acts as a breathalyzer to test the driver's blood alcohol concentration before it allows the vehicle's motor to be started. If the blood alcohol concentration is greater than the programmed amount of 0.02% or 0.04%, the ignition interlock device prevents the vehicle from starting.
According to several federal sources, the ignition interlock device was first made available for public use by a company called Autosense in Hayward, California. Today, several other U.S. companies and several Chinese Tech companies have started manufacturing these devices as well. Typically no larger than a cell phone, the ignition interlock device uses an ethanol-specific fuel cell for a sensor. The device will require more breath samples at random times after the engine has started to ensure that the driver remains free of alcoholic influences during the entire drive, and to prevent friends from breathing into the device.
Ignition interlock devices keep a log of the driver's activity on the device and the vehicle's electrical system. The device's sensors must be calibrated at 30, 60, or 90-day intervals and it is at this time that the log will be printed out or downloaded. When a court orders the use of an ignition interlock device, the driver has to show proof that the device was installed by an authorized installer. Failure to comply with a court-ordered installation with result in suspension of driving privileges until the court order is fulfilled.
Ever since legislation was passed in 2003 allowing the fitment of ignition interlock devices, courts have been sentencing these devices as punishment for second-time DUI offenders and for individuals charged with a DUI that possesses an aggravating factor. If an individual is driving with a suspended license due to a DUI conviction in the State of California, the court is legally required to impose an ignition interlock requirement for up to a maximum of three years following the date of conviction.
Are these devices effective in lowering the rate of drunk driving? According to the International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety, the ignition interlock device leads to a 40-95% reduction in the rate of repeated DUI offenses among offenders when combined with a comprehensive monitoring and service program. There are still plenty of critics who oppose the ignition interlock device because it does not work for all offenders in all situations. Despite the criticism it receives, the ignition interlock device is likely to be a principal part of DUI sentencing and punishments for a continuing period of time.
If you have been accused of a DUI in or around the Los Angeles area, it is imperative to contact a Los Angeles DUI attorney as soon as possible. The state of California takes DUI offenses very seriously and you could face harsh penalties even for your first offense. The defense attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff have over 75 years of combined legal experience in California criminal law, and have served as former deputy district attorneys in the criminal courts of Southern California. From the moment you enlist our help, we will be on your side to provide you with aggressive legal defense both in and out of the courtroom. Learn more about what we can do for you and call us today for your free consultation!
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