If you’ve been convicted of a DUI in California, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. This device keeps you from starting your vehicle until you pass a breath test. The law for these devices is under California Vehicle Code Section 23247.
Simmrin Law Group has dealt with many cases that involved ignition interlock device violations. If you’ve been accused of breaking the laws around IIDs, our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles are ready to help you in California or federal court.
Here’s what you need to know if you’ve been ordered to install an IID on your vehicle and how to avoid breaking the law under California Vehicle Code Section 23247.
What Are Illegal Acts if I’m Required to Use an IID?
An IID requirement does more than make your car harder to start. It also puts you and others under special laws. Here are some of the illegal acts that someone may do involving ignition interlock devices.
Operating a Vehicle Without an IID
If you are required to use an IID on your vehicle, you are not allowed to drive another vehicle without one. So you cannot borrow a friend’s vehicle for a quick errand because you don’t want to use the IID.
In fact, it would also be illegal for your friend to knowingly lend you a vehicle without an IID. So, if you have an IID requirement, don’t ask to borrow someone’s car. You and the lender could get in legal trouble. You are also required to tell anyone who may lend you a vehicle about your IID requirement.
Asking Someone Else to Start the Car
An ignition interlock device is similar to a breathalyzer. When you breathe into the tube, the device checks your blood alcohol concentration. If it is below the limit, the car can start with your key. If not, the ignition will lock.
You cannot ask someone else to blow into the tube to bypass the restriction. This is illegal for you and for the person who assists. It defeats the purpose of the device to circumvent it this way.
Remember, an IID is intended to keep you from driving drunk. The penalties for driving drunk after a conviction get much worse, especially if you’re still under DUI probation or if you kill someone while drunk driving. The latter can get you charged with second-degree murder.
Tampering With an IID
This should go without saying, but you also aren’t allowed to tamper, remove, bypass, or disable the device. You will face penalties and you may face additional charges from the IID provider for damaging the equipment.
When your required time for using an IID is completed, authorized personnel should come to remove the device. Do not remove it yourself, even if your sentence is completed. Contact the court if it hasn’t happened.
For a free legal consultation with an ignition interlock device violation laws lawyer serving California, call (310) 896-2723
Consequences for Violating IID Laws Under CA VEH 23247
If you need to use an ignition interlock device and you break these laws, expect to face the following consequences if you are convicted under California Vehicle Code Section 23247:
- Up to six months in jail
- Fines of up to $5,000
- Revoked driving privileges
In addition, you may face additional penalties based on your prior offense and your probation status. IIDs are usually installed as a condition of probation for DUI offenders. Therefore, by breaking probation through breaking the IID law, you may have to face your original sentence.
Defending yourself against accusations of violating ignition interlock device laws or breaking your DUI probation demands the help of a skilled DUI defense attorney. The Simmrin Law Group can help you, but you will need to act quickly so we can start your defense before the court sentences you.
California Ignition Interlock Device Violation Laws Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
My Car With an IID Was Impounded. What Now?
If your car has been impounded and it has an IID, you still cannot drive other vehicles that lack an IID. However, if you get your vehicle back and the IID is missing or damaged, it will not be your fault.
Any damage to an IID done while a vehicle is impounded is the responsibility of the person who removed it. Since you didn’t have your car, you would not be responsible. If your IID is missing or damaged when you get your car back, do not drive it. Instead, notify the court or your probation officer about what happened.
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How Simmrin Law Group Can Help
If you are accused of breaking the laws surrounding ignition interlock devices under California Vehicle Code Section 23247, you need immediate legal assistance. Simmrin Law can help defend you. We can also answer any questions you have about your IID requirement.
Don’t let confusion about IID laws lead to further legal troubles. Contact Simmrin Law Group today for a consultation. We’ll help you understand your situation, explore your legal options, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form