DUI Defense Lawyer in Orlando
Ignition Interlock Device
An ignition interlock device is a device installed, upon conviction, to the dashboard of a vehicle that an offender drives (including jointly owned or leased vehicles). The installation of this device reduces the possibility of repeat offenders and works in the same manner as a breathalyzer.
Once the device is installed, the driver must provide a breath sample in order to start the car. If the driver’s blood alcohol concentration is under a predetermined limit (usually around 0.04%), then the car will automatically start up. At random times throughout the drive, the machine will require another breath sample.
If the sample is not given, or if the driver’s BAC is above the predetermined limit, an alarm will go off and continue to sound as the vehicle is driven until the vehicle is pulled over or another clean sample is given.
The device is re-calibrated every 30 to 90 days at which time the record provided by the machine will be printed out and given to authorities to review. If the device shows that the defendant has been under the influence while operating the vehicle, additional penalties can be given.
According to Statute 316.193 in the 2010 Florida State Code, an ignition interlock device is only required for a first-time offender if a minor was present in the vehicle or the driver’s BAC measures over 0.15%. If either of these occur, an ignition interlock device will be installed for a mandatory six months. A second conviction requires installation for one year (two years for a minor in the car or a BAC of .15%) and a third conviction requires installation for two years. For a fourth offense, expect the device to be installed on your car for five years.
In addition to the installation of the ignition interlock device, the defendant also pays for any costs, including but not limited to, refundable deposit ($100), installation ($70), interlock fee ($12), and monthly monitoring and calibration ($67.50).
DUI penalties are serious. If you are charged with DUI, contact an experienced DUI attorney at Katz & Phillips, P.A. today. Our legal team is equipped to handle cases involving ignition interlock devices and we will do everything we can to get your case dismissed, reduce the charges, or win a successful verdict in a trial setting.
Contact us today to find out how an Orlando DUI defense lawyer can help you.
