Drivers who install an ignition interlock device (IID) are often curious about the functions of the device. You may be wondering exactly how your IID functions. You may also want to know if your IID will tell you your blood alcohol content (BAC) level.
You can use this article to review the reports generated by IIDs in California. Go over legally acceptable BAC levels in the state. Get help considering the results of failing an IID test with the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group and call (310) 896-2723 to speak with a legal professional today.
IIDs Assess Your BAC Level in California
IIDs can tell you your BAC level after you complete a breath test. Technically, IIDs measure the percentage of alcohol in your breath. However, the percentage of alcohol in your breath relates directly to the amount of alcohol in your blood, allowing the test to assess your BAC.
In order to measure your BAC with an IID, you will need to blow into a handheld breathalyzer device. This device connects to alcohol sensors that measure the alcohol on your breath. Once the analysis is complete, your IID will inform you of your BAC.
Note that, if your IID detects alcohol on your breath, it will also prevent your vehicle from starting and you will be unable to drive.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Legal BAC Levels in the State of California
California uses several guidelines related to legal BAC for drivers throughout the state. Generally, drivers must keep their BAC below:
- 0.08% if they are over 21
- 0.04% if they operate a commercial vehicle
- 0.01% if they are under 21
However, if you were convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) and ordered to install an IID, you will need to keep your BAC at a lower level before you can drive. IIDs may stop you from operating your vehicle if your BAC is 0.02% or even lower in some circumstances.
Results of Failing an IID Test for Drivers
The court system in California often orders drivers convicted of a DUI to install an IID. You must complete IID testing before you can turn your vehicle on in this situation. Failure on your IID test will:
- Prevent your vehicle from operating
- Report your BAC level to you
- Record your failure on the device
The DMV can review failures recorded on your IID. Failure reports are generally more serious if they occur during a “rolling” test taken while you are driving. You must complete these tests frequently while operating your vehicle. If your IID shows that your BAC was elevated while you were driving, you can face harsh legal repercussions.
Make sure you get legal help quickly if your IID indicates that you were committing a DUI. Contact a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles right away by calling (310) 896-2723.
False Positive IID Test Results in California
IIDs are designed to detect alcohol on your breath. Sometimes, this alcohol indicates that you consumed alcoholic beverages before trying to drive, but this isn’t always the case. The sensitivity of an IID means that sometimes these devices return false-positive results.
For example, you may be prevented from operating your vehicle if you take an IID test after:
- Using mouthwash
- Taking cough syrup
- Eating foods made with alcohol
- Drinking some energy drinks
Your IID may generate a report on your BAC after you use, eat, or drink items that would not normally be seen as “alcoholic.” Small amounts of alcohol in these products can lock out your vehicle for a period of time.
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Respond Quickly if You Fail an IID Test
You may need to get help right away if you take an IID and it tells you that your BAC is elevated. This is especially true if you are operating your vehicle at the time that you take the test. Reports generated by the IID can be used against you if you are charged with another DUI.
The Simmrin Law Group can work on your case now. Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles may be able to show that your IID returned false-positive results based on something you ate or drank. Learn more by contacting us now.
Get Help Understanding the Use of IIDs
An IID can tell you your BAC level in California. IIDs can also lock out your vehicle and their reports may come into play if you are accused of another DUI. The Simmrin Law Group can assist you if you failed an IID test in California. Contact us now to get a FREE consultation about your legal options.
Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles can go over the specific facts of your case now. Call
(310) 896-2723 or fill out our online contact form.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form