DUI Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles

Ignition Interlock Device (IID)

An ignition interlock device (IID), also referred to as a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BIID), is similar to a breath test device. It is installed in a person’s vehicle and requires a clean breath sample in order for the vehicle to start. The device will be set at a certain level and any blood alcohol concentration above that level will prevent the engine from starting. An ignition interlock device will also require another breath sample at random times after the engine has started (to avoid situations where an intoxicated driver has a friend blow into the device to deliver a clean sample and then gets behind the vehicle and drives). If the driver fails to provide a subsequent breath sample or delivers a sample that is above the allowed blood alcohol level, the device will start up an alarm until the engine is turned off or a passable breath sample is administered. An ignition interlock device cannot stop an engine that is already running – it can only interfere with the starting mechanism of a vehicle to prevent it from starting up in the first place.

Under new DUI laws in California, many drivers convicted of DUI-related violations will face the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in their vehicles. They will have to pay for this installation and the device will remain in the vehicle for a predetermined period of time.

A Los Angeles DUI attorney can help if you have been arrested for DUI and are concerned about facing ignition interlock device requirements. An attorney can help you understand what to expect in these situations and can work to protect your legal rights in order to help ensure that you do not face having to install an IID in the first place.

To learn more about IIDs and how they may affect you, contact a Los Angeles Ignition Interlock Device Lawyer today.