Learn More About the Benefits of Ignition Interlock Devices
Interlock devices are installed in vehicles owned by individuals that have been arrested for and convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI). These devices are intended to prevent repeat offenses for individuals that attempt to operate their vehicle when their blood alcohol content is above the legal limit. Current U.S. data indicates that there are approximately 150,000 interlock devices installed in vehicles belonging to individuals that have received multiple convictions.
The Costs of Driving While Impaired
Even though someone has a blood alcohol level lower than 0.08, they can still be arrested and convicted of a DUI in several states. When someone has a prior DWI conviction, they are also six times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash if their blood alcohol level is 0.08 or above. On an annual basis, alcohol-related crashes cost over $59 billion.
How Interlock Devices Work
Basically, an ignition interlock device prevents someone from starting their car. When this device senses that a person’s blood alcohol content is above the pre-set level, which is usually 0.02, the engine is prohibited from starting. After a driver has been able to start their car, most of these devices will prompt them to conduct a rolling retest. This initially occurs five to 15 minutes after the vehicle has been started. Additional prompts will occur at random while the car is in motion.
It’s been proposed that interlocks should be mandatory in all cars. If this does occur, the pre-set limits will be set below the legal limit of o.08. It’s likely that these settings will be between 0.03 to 0.04.
The Benefits of Interlock Devices
There have been some positive results due to requiring interlock devices for repeat offenders. They have, for example, assisted with the reduction of repeat offenses by 70%. Furthermore, repeat offenses have also been reduced after the devices have been removed. When compared with offenders that didn’t have an interlock device in their vehicle, this amounted to a 39% reduction in repeat offenses.
Services Provided by Ignition Interlock Companies
If you are required to have one of these devices installed in your vehicle, you want to seek the services of reputable ignition interlock companies. These ignition interlock companies are ones that have been certified, licensed, and bonded. In addition to installing an interlock device, the company will also be able to repair or replace it in the event that it malfunctions. Once you contact a local company to have your device installed, you will be able to learn more about the services they provide.