Like any mechanical device, an ignition interlock is not 100% reliable, but is very nearly so. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has set very strict standards for these devices, and independent labs test them. In short, they work.
Because most people like you want to get back on the road, they are willing to put up with a bit of risk to enjoy the freedom of driving again. But it is important that you take responsibility for the following so you don’t end up losing your driving privileges.
- Never miss your routine service appointment. These are generally about 60 days apart. A few days before, a light will flash on the unit to remind you of the appointment. And, if you miss it, your vehicle will permanently lock and have to be towed—at your expense.
- Never have someone else blow into your device so you can drive after drinking. If caught, you will face stiff fines and penalties. In addition, the ignition interlock will ask for “running retests” periodically, requiring you to provide a sample at any time while driving.
- Never “hot wire” your vehicle or leave it running while you stop in a bar for a drink. Both of these are terrible ideas. Between the random testing and the fact that the device will record any time it has started without a breath test and “demand” that you give one, you don’t have a good chance of getting away with it.
As a north Georgia DUI defense attorney, I understand that everyone makes mistakes, and the IID is a great technology to get you rolling again. If you have questions about this or any other DUI issue, please give the Law Office of Scott Miller a call. We are here to help.
