Being charged with a DUI can be difficult for anyone. Faced with the fear of losing their license, many drivers struggle to understand how they will be able to go about their daily tasks if they cannot drive. Luckily, there is a way for drivers charged with a DUI to regain some of their driving capabilities, an ignition interlock device. In this article, McClintock Law will explain what an ignition interlock device is and how it allows DUI drivers to regain the right to drive.Â
Key Takeaways:
Ignition interlock devices can help Illinois DUI offenders regain some driving privileges.
- Ignition Interlock devices are small devices installed into cars that have drivers take a breathalyzer before they can drive.
- Ignition Interlock devices are required in the state of Illinois, but the length of time they’re installed is dependent on the severity of the charge.
- The driver is responsible for the upkeep of this device. This includes paying for it and ensuring that it’s working properly.
- There are benefits to ignition interlock devices including the fact that they allow individuals to begin to drive sooner.
What Is An Ignition Interlock Device?
In Illinois, if an individual has been charged with driving under the influence (DUI), they may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) into their vehicle. An IID is a small device that is connected to the ignition system of a car, and it requires a driver to take a breathalyzer test before starting the car. If the driver has a BAC over the limit (normally 0.02) the car will not start, and the individual will be unable to drive. The purpose of an IID is to ensure that someone who has been charged with a DUI cannot drive while intoxicated.
Are Ignition Interlock Devices Required in Illinois?
Yes, in the state of Illinois, individuals who have been charged with a DUI are required to get an IID. They even require Ignition Interlock Devices for first-time offenders, but how long a driver is required to have it depends on multiple factors. For example, if it is a driver’s first offense, they may only be required to have an IID for one year. But if a driver has multiple offenses, they may be required to have an IID for up to five years. Additional factors that can influence how long a driver is required to have an ignition interlock device include how high the driver’s BAC was, if they refused to submit to a breath test at the initial arrest, and other aggravating factors. Ignition interlock devices are required for all drivers in Illinois who are charged with a DUI, but for how long depends on the severity of the charge.
Is The Driver Responsible for the Ignition Interlock Device?
The driver is responsible for their Ignition Interlock Device. This means that they have several responsibilities when it comes to their IID including the cost to purchase the device. Expenses may vary but drivers should expect to spend thousands of dollars on both the installation and monitoring fees. Another responsibility that the driver will have is the general upkeep and maintenance of the IID. This includes every few months taking the IID to a service center for maintenance and to download data from the device. The driver is responsible for the IID, and they must take proper care of it to avoid any future consequences.
What Are The Benefits Of An Ignition Interlock Device?
There are several benefits to having an ignition interlock device installed. The most important one is that it may help drivers regain their driver’s licenses quicker. An IID allows drivers to have a restricted driver’s license which means that they are allowed to drive to work, school, and other essential activities. In addition, these drivers will retain their mobility and independence compared to drivers who don’t have it installed in their cars. An Ignition Interlock Device is the first step to showing the court, and the world, that a driver is serious about avoiding another DUI charge in the future.
At McClintock Law, we understand that everybody makes mistakes, but we also understand that these mistakes do not define a person. That’s why we’re here to help our clients through every step of a DUI charge. Our goal is to help, so you should contact us as soon as possible. That’s why you should call us for a free consultation. Our number is (309)715-7181.
