Ignition Interlock Devices in Anne Arundel County
If you have been convicted of a DUI, you may be required to get an ignition interlock device (IID) installed. This device will monitor alcohol consumption before driving. Ignition interlock devices in Anne Arundel County can be a major hindrance in your daily life. An experienced DUI attorney may be able to help clarify restrictions on a license or other implications of having an IID.
Basics of Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer connected to a car’s ignition. Sometimes it must be installed in someone’s vehicle after they get a DUI offense. When it is installed, the individual cannot start their vehicle until they breathe into a system that tests their breath for alcohol.
If the device registers a blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.02, the car will not start. If someone manages to start and drive the vehicle, they are required to intermittently retake the test. A reading of 0.02 or higher will both trigger a violation of the interlock program through the MVA and additionally could be a basis for a violation of probation if the driver is on probation for the DUI. Each violation through the MVA extends the program by one month. However, too many violations will trigger expulsion from the program and the original suspension period will be imposed.
The ignition interlock device is installed by an interlock technician and is connected to the ignition system. The device acts as a switch, preventing electric impulse from going between the ignition and starter motor without first passing the test. If a test is failed, the ignition will simply not connect to the starter motor, and the car will not start.
IID Installation Logistics in Anne Arundel County
If a person blows over a 0.15 alcohol level or they otherwise refuse to take the breath test, they will be required in Anne Arundel County to have an interlock device for a period of one year. This is true even for a first offense. If someone refuses to install an IID, they may have their license suspended.
The state requires that a person cannot drive a vehicle that is not equipped with the device, so it does not just have to be their vehicle, it could be anyone’s. It is not a restriction on the vehicle, it is a restriction on a person and their license. An IID costs about $1,000 a year to have an interlock system installed on a vehicle.
Attorneys will not be involved with the installation of an ignition interlock device. Instead, the individual must contact a provider and get it installed, then go to a full-service Motor Vehicle Administration to get their license reissued.
Other Alcohol Monitoring Tools
Occasionally, there are other monitoring tools used, but they are generally reserved for more serious situations. One such tool is the SCRAM device, a GPS ankle bracelet that tracks a person and monitors alcohol consumption via alcohol excretion through sweat. If any alcohol is detected, it will send an alert to a probation officer to maintain complete sobriety whether driving or not.
Alternatives to An Ignition Interlock Device
There are a few ways to try to challenge the interlock requirement, and one is to get a restricted license for six months instead of having it suspended. A restricted license will only allow someone to drive to and from work, school, medical care, and alcohol treatment, but not for any recreational driving. Another option is to go to the Office of Administrative Hearings in Baltimore County to challenge the initial breath test as being incorrect.
Most people prefer the interlock to an outright suspension or restriction. The suspension is six months for scoring over 0.15 on a breathalyzer and nine months for refusing to take a breathalyzer test. Many people have other transportation options, but many others need to drive, meaning suspension is not a viable option.
Call Ignitiongition Interlock Devices in Anne Arundel County
If you have been charged with a DUI, an attorney may be able to advocate on your behalf to potentially prevent consequences such as the installation of an IID. However, if you are already required to install an IID, there are many considerations to make and the impact on your life may be large. Call a lawyer today to learn more about the impact of ignition interlock devices in Anne Arundel County.