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Ignition Interlock
IGNITION INTERLOCK DEVICE
The ignition interlock device is the way that someone who has been convicted of DWI gets their driving privileges back when they wouldn’t otherwise. If they do not agree to have the ignition interlock installed in their car, then they cannot drive.
It was in July 2011 that the law stated a person with a single DWI that meets certain criteria or a person with multiple DWI convictions can have a full driver’s license if they sign the ignition interlock agreement, as well as prove their insurance, pay the $680 reinstatement fee plus the new license fee, and pass the DWI test when they enter the Ignition Interlock Program and having the device installed in the vehicle.
HOW IT WORKS
The operation of the device is rather simple. Before the driver can start the car, they have to blow into it so it can measure whether or not they have measurable alcohol in their bloodstream above .02. The reason why it is .02 is because that is a very small amount of alcohol and is consistent with what a person may have in their bloodstream after taking a dose of cough medicine.
The machine will retest the driver every 20 to 30 minutes while on the road. The device will not shut of the car if alcohol is detected. However, it will not let the driver restart the car the next time the ignition is turned off. In order to start the car back up, the driver has to wait 15 minutes, blow into the machine again, and have a clean reading to start the vehicle again.
WHEN IT IS REQUIRED
Before submitting yourself to the fact you may need an ignition interlock device, you will want your St. Paul DWI lawyer to defend you so you can try and avoid the charges or have them reduced. Nonetheless, the interlock device is an option that drivers can choose so they can have their license back. There are some cases where a person will have limited driving privileges and still require and interlock. Some individuals will have it for a year, while others will have it for six years.
It should also be noted that the driver is responsible for the cost of the device. This means fitting the bill for its installation and the maintenance. If a person violates the terms of having the device, then they could be charged with a crime and this could result in jail time. These devices are not perfect, so an accusation warrants assistance from your attorney so you can fight the charge.
CONTACT A ST. PAUL DWI DEFENSE ATTORNEY
If you have been convicted of DWI, you may be facing the possibility of having an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle. If you have been charged, you may be wondering how this device can make a difference when it comes to whether or not your driving privileges are restored. Call the Ramsay Law Firm, PLLC at 651-604-0000 for a free consultation to discuss the charges against you and how you can fight them, as well as what your options are if conviction cannot be avoided.