Nebraska has a mandatory ignition interlock requirement for most DUI convictions. Even if the requirement isn’t mandatory, such as a first-offense DUI without any aggravating circumstances, a judge may order the device. In some cases, the DMV may even mandate an ignition interlock even if the court does not. No matter what the reason for your interlock order, you need to watch out for violations once the device is installed.
The most common Nebraska ignition interlock violations include:
- A failed blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test at startup.
- Refusing to take a start-up BAC test.
- Failing a rolling retest.
- Failure to complete a rolling retest.
- Attempts to circumvent or tamper with the device.
- Failure to calibrate the device within five days of a service notice.
If you are found guilty of any Nebraska ignition interlock violations, you’ll face the consequences for a Class II misdemeanor. That means your ignition interlock permit will be revoked and you’ll have to serve out the remainder of your original suspension period without the device.
Those violations are recorded by the device and are provided to the court or your probation officer during the course of a routine service appointment. Also, Nebraska requires ignition interlock devices that are camera-equipped. If the image of the person using the device upon startup doesn’t match the image of a person performing a rolling retest, that is another violation.
Avoiding a Nebraska ignition interlock violation is just a matter of using the device as you were instructed, and ensuring any other drivers do the same. Without the device, you’re back to a suspended license and waiting for others to drive you to and from your job or other appointments. With full compliance, you can be assured of a much more independent lifestyle, even while you work through all of the requirements of your DUI conviction.
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