California residents who have been convicted of drunk driving might be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicles. An IID is essentially a Breathalzyer for the vehicle that a person blows in before attempting to start the car. If the device detects alcohol in a person’s breath, it will not allow the car to turn on. In the event that a lockout occurs, a driver will need to wait a predetermined amount of time before attempting to turn the car on again.
In most cases, the lockout period increases each time the IID detects alcohol on a person’s breath. There is also a possibility that an IID will require drivers to submit new samples while the car is in operation. While a failed test is unlikely to result in the car turning itself off, the results of the test may be saved or submitted to authorities.
Those who are ordered to install an IID in their vehicles must typically pay for it to be put in their vehicles. They may also have to pay to maintain the device, and a court may demand to see proof that it was obtained from an approved entity. The state may waive or reduce some or all fees and costs for those who are unable to pay them in full.
Individuals who are charged with drunk or impaired driving may face a multitude of penalties if convicted. One of those penalties may be an order to use an IID in any vehicles that they drive. An attorney may be able to help a person avoid that fate by casting doubt on evidence such as Breathalyzer results used to charge an individual. This might result in an acquittal or a favorable plea bargain to a lesser charge.
