Ignition Interlock Device (IID): The Pressure's on for DUI Offenders
The ignition interlock device, or IID, is an apparatus consisting of an alcohol breath-testing unit, which is connected to an automobile ignition. California law (Vehicle Code 23575) requires judges to sentence individuals convicted of driving on a DUI-suspended driver license (DWS-DUI) and repeat DUI offenders to install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle that they own or operate for up to three years. A judge may, at the court's discretion, order first time DUI offenders to install an IID onto their automobile (although this is rarely the case in California DUI cases).
California DUI law also provides repeat DUI offenders the option of installing an ignition interlock, after serving half of their license suspension period, to apply for and obtain a restricted driver license from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). See California DMV DUI FAQ's.
In 2002, the California Department of Motor Vehicles conducted an evaluation of ignition interlock implementation. In reviewing all IID studies combined, the findings suggested that interlocks can reduce driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs while the ignition interlock devices remain on offenders' vehicles, once the IIDs are removed, however, DUI behavior rates climb back up, suggesting that no social learning associated with IIDs takes place. In addition, the evaluation questions the effectiveness of IIDs and raised concern over the safety of the ignition interlock, specifically over the rolling retest feature of the device.
The report also highlighted the fact that the courts have been weak in implementing orders of IID installations and that a significant majority of DUI and DWS-DUI offenders do not install an IID when ordered to do so. In light of these findings, there is increasing pressure on the courts to enforce IID laws.
Despite the questionable effectiveness and safety concerns of IIDs, a new legislative Bill (AB 3045) regarding IIDs, known as "Adam's Law," was enacted on September 30, 2006. This law prohibits the DMV from reinstating a driver's license to offenders of driving with a suspended license under the influence of alcohol (DWS-DUI) and who were ordered to install an IID without specified proof that the certified ignition interlock device has been installed.
In the call to step up enforcement of effective ignition interlock use, new monitoring technology has also been developed and incorporated into some IIDs. Smart Start Inc., one distributor of IIDs in California and across the states, announced its' development of a photo identification unit that accompanies its' newest IID, released this year. The photo ID module is mounted on the windshield of the interlocked vehicle and takes a snapshot of the breath test subject. The photograph is stored, electronically, with a date and time stamp.
There is no doubt that California takes driving under the influence of alcohol very seriously. If you have been arrested and charged with DUI in Southern California it is critical that you seek legal help from an experienced Southern California DUI lawyer.
As Drunk Driving and DUI Defense Attorneys, The Law Offices of Thomas Wallin are well versed in California DUI laws and are experienced at building a strong DUI defense for their clients that can minimize DUI penalties. Contact the Law Offices of Thomas Wallin for a FREE DUI CONSULTATION if you have been arrested for DUI or Drunk Driving in California.
Our California DUI Defense Law Firm represents individuals accused of DUI and drunk driving throughout Southern California, including Driving Under the Influence cases in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego.
