Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device works by measuring the amount of alcohol in the driver’s breath. The device is installed in the car of the convicted DUI offender. If the driver’s BAC measures above the set limit, the vehicle will not start. In fact, the driver will be required to blow into the device numerous times during any driving trip. This prevents the driver from allowing a friend to blow into the device to start the car, and then hand over the steering wheel to the convicted DUI offender.
The device is connected to the starter or the ignition, and in order for the DUI offender to start his or her vehicle, he must breath into the device. There is a pre-set limit for the driver’s BAC, usually .02%. If the tester registers above this pre-set limit, the car will not start. There is a circuit that connects the ignition switch and the starter system. If the breath sample is not provided, no power will reach the starter system. If the proper breath sample is given, the ignition interlock will close the circuit and the power will be provided to the car. Throughout the trip, the driver must provide breath samples to the device. If the driver fails a breath sample, the violation will be recorded and sent to the DUI offender’s probation officer or the judge.
So how exactly can an ignition interlock device prevent DUI offenders from getting behind the wheel with alcohol in their system? It can be trusted because of changes that came with brand new technology. No longer are there ways to circumvent the system. In fact, it is nearly impossible to trick an ignition interlock device. This is why it has become such an effective form of punishment.
Once a driver has registered below the set limit, the ignition interlock system will allow the car to start. At various times during the driver’s time behind the wheel, he or she will have to blow into the device again. If his BAC is too high, the driver’s violation will register and be sent to the offender’s probation officer or the judge who sentenced him. Further, many ignition interlock devices take photos of the driver that, in addition to the information about the BAC, are sent to the probation officer or the judge on a regular basis. This is another way they systems are preventing DUI offenders from getting around the device in any way. Properly functioning ignition interlock devices mean less accidents and less recidivism.
Another way the ignition interlock system prevents any trickery is by requiring the driver to actually hum into the device. This means the driver cannot, for instance, blow up a balloon and use that to act on his or her behalf. Humming actually makes sure the driver himself, not some other equipment or tactic, is used to blow into the system.
Not only is an ignition interlock system an effective form of punishment, but it is also a benefit to the families of a convicted DUI offender. That’s because it still allows the DUI offender to pick up kids at school, get to work, run errands and support his family. But of course, it is a punishment AND a preventative measure.
Ignition interlock systems are also cost-effective. The small device that is about the size of a cell phone is a great alternative to jail or a license suspension. The DUI offender must pay for the maintenance on the system, so it is of no additional costs to the court.
The best example of the success of ignition interlock devices is the widespread use of them as a punishment throughout the United States. More than 13 states require interlock devices as a mandatory punishment for first time offenders.