Ignition interlock devices (IIDs) are designed to prevent drivers from operating a vehicle while inebriated. IIDs measure blood alcohol content (BAC) before allowing you to start your vehicle and they perform regular tests while you are driving. Put simply, IIDs are supposed to prevent you from driving under the influence (DUI).
Find out if you can still get a DUI with an IID right here. The Simmrin Law Group can help you consider how IIDs function in California. You can also contact us at (310) 896-2723 about any DUI charges you’re facing.
IIDs and DUI Charges in California
An IID will not allow you to turn on your vehicle if it detects alcohol in your system. This may make it seem as though you cannot get a DUI with an IID. However, the fact of the matter is that you can be arrested for a DUI, with or without an IID.
You could be arrested for a DUI if:
- You are inebriated and you have a sober individual blow into your IID so you can drive
- You are not inebriated before starting your vehicle and only begin drinking afterwards
- You ignore IID tests while driving because you know you are inebriated
- You take an IID test while driving and fail the assessment
Any of these situations could result in DUI charges while you have an IID installed in your vehicle. Law enforcement officers will still pull you over and test your blood alcohol content (BAC) if you have an IID installed. This can lead to DUI charges.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
IIDs and Drug-Related DUI Charges
California does not only charge drivers with DUIs for alcohol use. You can face DUI charges if you drive while under the influence of:
- Illicit chemical substances
- Some prescription medications
- Some over-the-counter medications
Taking any chemical substance that impairs your ability to operate a motor vehicle in a reasonable way can lead to DUI charges. IIDs do not check for the presence of drugs in your system. They cannot even detect marijuana.
Therefore, you can be convicted of a drug-related DUI with an IID.
Results of a DUI with an IID in California
DUIs are priorable in the state of California. This means that each time you are arrested, the penalties you face for a DUI conviction become more severe. If you get another DUI after you were already convicted and ordered to install an IID, you can face harsh legal repercussions.
You may be aware that a first-time DUI in California can result in:
- Fines of up to $2,000
- Jail time of up to six months
A second DUI – or a DUI with an IID – can increase these penalties, leading to:
- Fines of up to $2,500
- Jail time of up to one year
DUI penalties continue to increase each time you are arrested. California uses the same penalties to handle both alcohol- and drug-related DUIs. If you are facing DUI charges, make sure you get help quickly by calling (310) 896-2723 to reach a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
Legal Options for Handling DUI Charges
The experts recommend that you get help quickly if you are arrested for a DUI in California, especially if it is not your first DUI offense. As we’ve already discussed, you can face harsh penalties for a conviction for a DUI. Fortunately, the Simmrin Law Group is here to help you today.
A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can help you deal with DUI charges. We may be able to show that:
- You were stopped without reasonable cause by a law enforcement officer
- You were not actually inebriated while operating your vehicle
- You did not use drugs before getting behind the wheel
Allow us to begin assessing your unique needs today. We’re ready to help if you were charged with a DUI with an IID installed in your vehicle. Securing legal assistance as quickly as possible increases your chances of resolving DUI charges successfully, so don’t wait to reach out to us.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
A DUI Lawyer Can Help If You Get a DUI with an IID
You can still get a DUI with an IID in California. This DUI would count as a subsequent DUI offense, resulting in harsher penalties in the court system. The Simmrin Law Group can work to defend you from these charges, starting right now with a FREE initial case evaluation.
Take charge of your future by contacting our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles for help today. It’s easy to reach us. Just call (310) 896-2723 or fill out our online contact form.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form