Los Angeles DUI Attorney
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device is a breath screening apparatus that requires a driver to pass a breath-alcohol test before the vehicle's engine will start. These advanced technological devices are wired to the engine's ignition system which gives the device the capability to control the functioning of the motor vehicle. When the driver blows into the mouthpiece, the device will measure their breath-alcohol concentration (BAC) to see whether or not it exceeds the limit (which is pre-set into the device). If the drivers BAC exceeds the specified level, the ignition interlock device will prevent the vehicle's engine from starting.
Ignition intelock devices are becoming more and more common in California DUI cases and drivers charged with drunk driving, especially repeat offenders, are often required to install ignition interlock devices on their vehicles. In fact, anyone convicted of multiple DUIs within a time frame of 10 years must have these devices installed on their vehicles before they will be permitted to drive again.
At Gold & Witham, our lawyers have seen many cases where the court has ordered first time DUI offenders to have ignition interlock devices installed on their motor vehicles, so virtually anyone may be required to install one of these devices. Individuals who refuse chemical testing or who have BAC of .15% or higher are at a higher risk of being ordered to utilize ignition interlock devices.
If you have been arrested for drunk driving in Los Angeles and you are worried that you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, you should speak to a DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer will defend you and will negotiate with judges and prosecutors in an effort to prevent you from having to install an ignition interlock device on your car, truck, van or SUV.
For more information about ignition interlock devices and how they may affect your life, contact a Los Angeles DUI Attorney at Gold & Witham today! |