How Ignition Interlock Devices Work

Ignition interlock devices are becoming more popular in DUI court. People convicted of the crime may have the option of having a device installed in their vehicle in return for a lighter penalty. Others may have no choice in the matter, having been convicted of DUI multiple times. No matter which situation you find yourself in, you may be wondering exactly how these devices work. Here’s a brief tutorial.

1. Installation

An ignition interlock device is typically installed in the glove compartment of the vehicle. It is then hard wired to the ignition system. The installation will be handled by a professional.

2. Starting the Car

The device includes a mouth piece. To start the vehicle, you will have to blow approximately 1.5 liters of air into that mouth piece. The device will be set to a pre-determined limit. If you blow over that limit, your vehicle will not start. The limits vary, but are normally between .02% and .04%.

3. Rolling Tests

Depending on the device you have in your vehicle and the orders of the judge, you may have to blow into the device more than once. You may need to blow into the mouth piece after the car has been in motion for 5 to 30 minutes. But why? This is to prevent people from drinking behind the wheel once they have passed the initial breath test. It can also prevent a driver from having a sober friend blow to get the car started.

4. Chip

Don’t think that because you blow into the machine that you are in the clear. Every time you blow, the machine records your BAC level on a computer chip. That information can be downloaded at any time law enforcement or the judge need to view it. The machine also knows if you try to tamper with it and can provide certain information regarding that tampering to law enforcement.

Even if the judge does not want information from the chip, you can expect to have it downloaded every 30 days. All data logs will be maintained. If you fail to blow into the machine or blow above the legal limit, the judge will find out and whatever consequences you were advised of may be put into effect.

An interlock ignition device is not something to toy with. If you have one installed in your vehicle at the order of a judge, follow the court’s orders to the letter. If you have any questions about the machine or its use, be sure to consult with your attorney.

If you have been charged with DUI in Orlando or the surrounding area, call our office as soon as possible. A member of our team will review the details of your case at no cost to you and provide you with options. Call now.

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