Ignition interlock devices are a relative newcomer to the drunk driving enforcement scene. Yet in recent years, they have seen enormous and growing popularity among lawmakers and anti-drunk driving organizations. Ignition interlocks are devices that are installed in the vehicles of people who have been convicted of drunk driving. The laws that mandate ignition interlocks vary from state to state, but usually they are installed after a driver has been convicted of DUI or DWI multiple times.
The device acts as an interrupter for the car’s ignition. When the driver turns the key, he must blow into the ignition interlock device. The device works like a Breathalyzer – if it detects alcohol on the user’s breath, it will lock down the vehicle and prevent it from starting. If the user’s breath is free of alcohol, the car can be started.
A man who was once convicted of DUI here in North Carolina is once again in hot water after he was pulled over and arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. The strange part about the case, however, is that the man had an ignition interlock device installed in his car. The device should have prevented him from operating the vehicle.
The man was arrested in New Hampshire, where officers noted that he appeared “highly intoxicated.” He apparently also had a number of empty alcohol containers in his truck. Police are investigating to discover how the man could have operated the vehicle with the device installed.
In this case, the man is facing serious charges. The penalties for drunk driving often increase based on the number of previous convictions. If found guilty, this would be the man’s third conviction. He was convicted in Georgia in 2009 and in Massachusetts in 1984.
Defendants charged with DUI or DWI can benefit from the advice of criminal defense attorneys. These legal professionals can help a defendant understand their rights and options as the case proceeds through the court system.
Source: My Fox Boston, “Lowell man with alcohol interlock device in ignition accused of DUI” No Author Given, Nov. 23, 2013