Getting ordered to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle can inspire feelings of frustration. Many drivers already feel penalized enough after they are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in California, and view the IID as another burden.
However, it may be useful to consider how an ignition interlock device can improve your life after a DUI conviction. Go over some of the benefits associated with IID usage here with the Simmrin Law Group, or call (310) 896-2723 to get more information.
Using an IID Reduces Your Odds of Getting Another DUI
DUI convictions in California can have a serious impact on your life. DUIs lead to fines, jail time, and other penalties. Additionally, California treats DUIs as priorable offenses. This means that each time you are convicted, the penalties increase.
Drivers who install IIDs are less likely to receive additional DUI charges. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracks repeat arrests for DUIs and impaired driving. They’ve reported that repeat arrests drop by 70% for individuals with IIDs installed.
This reduction in repeat arrests may be credited to the fact that the IID will not allow you to start your vehicle if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is elevated. You cannot get a DUI if you are not driving while inebriated.
However, if you are charged with another DUI, you can get help from a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles. You can reach the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group by calling (310) 896-2723.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Using an IID Allows You to Continue Operating Your Vehicle
In the past, most drivers convicted of a DUI in California had their license suspended for months or even years. During this time, they could not utilize their driving privileges. Installing an IID allows you to continue driving after a DUI conviction.
Note that you may only drive after you:
- Get your IID installed by a certified company
- Bring proof of installation to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- Pay any relevant fees for approval of the installation
Once these steps are accomplished, you can drive your vehicle as long as you properly use the IID.
Using an IID Can Protect Your Physical Wellbeing
Driving under the influence can endanger your health. Inebriated drivers are more likely to wreck their vehicles. In a drunk driving collision, you could:
- Injure yourself, leading to expensive medical bills
- Severely damage your vehicle
- Harm someone else, leading to criminal or civil charges
IIDs are designed to prevent drivers from operating a vehicle while impaired. This reduces the odds that you will be involved in an accident while behind the wheel. You could be able to avoid high medical costs, repair bills for a vehicle, and lengthy legal struggles by driving sober.
Understanding the Functions of an IID
Now that we have reviewed some of the ways that an IID can improve your life, we should consider how IIDs function. After you are convicted of a DUI in California, you may be ordered to install this device. You will need to set up an appointment with a court-approved installation company.
Installation techs will provide you with exact instructions on the operation of your IID. Generally, you will need to:
- Blow into the IID before starting your vehicle
- Perform random assessments while operating your vehicle
The IID will not allow your vehicle to start if your BAC is above a set limit. Generally, your BAC must remain below the legal limit for your vehicle to operate in California. If you fail an IID assessment, your vehicle will be locked out for a period of time before you can try again.
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Getting Help with IIDs and DUI Charges in California
As you can see, using an IID can help you move forward with your life after a conviction for a DUI. However, if you are facing unfair charges for drunk driving, you may not want to submit to the installation of an IID.
You can review your options in this situation by reaching out to a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles. A legal professional may be able to help you successfully resolve the charges you are facing for drunk driving in California, allowing you to move forward without the installation of an IID.
Speak with a Lawyer About IID Devices in California
An ignition interlock device may improve your life after a DUI conviction. However, not all drivers accused of DUIs will be convicted. You may be able to resolve your DUI charges with the help of the Simmrin Law Group. Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles can review your charges with a FREE case evaluation.
Call us at (310) 896-2723 or complete our online contact form to learn more. We can go over the pros and cons of accepting the installation of an IID in your situation.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form