One of the most dreaded penalties of a DUI is that of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). In order to fight for a reduction or dismissal of the DUI charges against you, you will need to retain the legal services of our Virginia DUI attorney. The firm understands the severity of an IID penalty and can do whatever it legally takes to help you avoid this harsh ramification.
Contact the firm today to begin building a powerful defense.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An ignition interlock device is similar to a breath test device or breathalyzer used by police to assess the alcohol level of drivers. These devices are known as breath alcohol ignition devices and are also called Ignition Interlock Device or “IIDs”. Such devices can be installed in a person’s automobile and they require a clean breath sample, meaning alcohol free breath, in order for the automobile’s ignition to function.
The device can be set to a certain level and any blood alcohol concentration that is found above that level will prevent the vehicle from starting at all. The driver can also be required at random times to provide further breath samples. It is now state law that if you register at 0.20 or higher and are convicted of DUI, you will be required to have one of these devices installed in any vehicle you operate.
In the instance of a random check by the IID and the driver then failing to provide a clean breath sample, alarm will go off. Interference can be provided by an ignition interlock device in the form of the alarm but these devices cannot stop the vehicles engine. Obtain the assistance you need if you are concerned about being required to install an IID and immediately contact a Virginia DUI lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael A. Pignone.
Ignition Interlock Devices are Often Required in DUI Convictions
In Virginia the DUI laws can require that a person charged and convicted of a DUI be required for a predetermined period of time, to pay for the installation of and operate with an Ignition Interlock Device on their vehicles. Under § 18.2-270 (2012), the amount of alcohol that is beyond the legal limit for those who have these devices is .02 – a very low alcohol level.
Any person who is convicted of DUI may have the mandatory requirement to have a device installed in their vehicle before reinstatement of the driver’s license. You will be required to get the information on the device printed out and submitted to the court on a quarterly basis. Many of the costs will be paid by the offender.
Work with Our Virginia DUI Attorney
If you have been charged with DUI, and are concerned about an ignition interlock device you should obtain all the information on how these work, the ramifications involved and what you can do to protect your rights so that you have more chance of avoiding the requirement of the installation of an ignition interlock device.
Contact our Virginia DUI attorney at your earliest convenience!