Ignition Interlock Devices: An Overview

If you are convicted of drunk driving in the state of Nevada you will face a number of consequences. Sentencing can include fines, community service, incarceration, and, in some cases, the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle.

Installation of an IID is required when a driver is convicted of DUI with a BAC of .18% of greater. If your BAC was .18% or greater, the judge will likely sentence you to install an IID for 1 to 3 years. If your BAC was less than .18%, the court can order you to install an IID for 3 to 6 months, though it is not a mandatory part of sentencing.

What is an IID?

An IID is a device that hooks into a car’s ignition control system and checks for alcohol on the driver’s breath. The IID sends reports back to the service provider of whether or not the driver’s BAC was over the limit. In order to start the vehicle, the driver must breathe into the IID. The IID will prevent the car from starting if it detects a BAC of .02% or greater.

The vehicle will start if the IID does not detect alcohol on the driver’s breath; however, the driver must periodically have their breath retested while driving in order for the vehicle to continue running. This prevents drivers from having another person blow into the IID to start their cars. If the IID detects alcohol on the driver’s breath while the vehicle is in use, the device will shut the engine off.

What is required of the driver?

If the use of an IID is ordered as part of your sentence, you will be required to pay for the installation of the device in any vehicles you operate.  This means that the court could order you to have an IID installed not only in your vehicle, but also a vehicle owned by your partner, your roommate, your parent, or your child.

You will also be responsible for paying for the IID service and maintenance of the device. Your IID must be installed by a certified service provider, and the service provider must also inspect the device regularly to ensure that it is functioning correctly and that the device has not been tampered with in any way.

In addition to the many harsh consequences imposed for DUI, an IID will severely restrict your personal freedoms. With so much on the line, you should make sure that you have a powerful defender in your corner. If you are charged with drunk driving in the Las Vegas area, don’t wait to contact the proven defense attorneys at De Castroverde Law Group!