Guess Who Wants Iowa Ignition Interlock Devices Now?

Joining public safety advocacy organizations like MADD, NHTSA and NTSB, AAA is ready to rock the ignition interlock in Iowa. We can’t blame these safety heavyweights, especially when drunk driving is a completely preventable crime, either by a person choosing not to drive while intoxicated or one with an ignition interlock requirement.

Ignition interlock devices have reduced drunk driving fatalities by seven percent, research says.

What are some of the benefits of an ignition interlock device?

• Offenders are given back their independence and freedom to drive. Feeling in control of one’s life adds to a better outcome after a life-altering incident, like a DUI.
• Other drivers on the road can be assured that anyone with an ignition interlock is a sober driver.
• The cost of the devices is minimal, comparable to a round or two of happy hour drinks. The exchange there is obvious, and one that most drunk drivers are glad is an option.
• Eventually, the device is removed from an offender’s vehicle. Once that happens, the offender has their full freedom back without worrying about how a license suspension or jail time may have impacted their life.

On average, a drunk driver has driven drunk more than 80 times before being caught. When you take that figure and realize that people continue to drink and drive even after being convicted of the crime, our safety is at stake.

“Requiring ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers is now recognized as the best way to prevent them from reoffending,” – Jan Withers, MADD

With AAA advocating for more Iowa ignition interlock devices, it just proves how trusted the devices have become in the fight against drunk driving. Nobody really wants an ignition interlock device, but it is definitely on the list of ways to keep our streets safe from those who may not realize the real dangers of drunk driving.