Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive without a California IID

The ignition interlock device (IID) expansion in California will not only keep the streets safer, but help offenders maintain their employment and other obligations. That means a better outcome after a DUI, for both the offender and the rest of us on the roads. As the state continues to put policies and processes in place for the upcoming California IID expansion, it may be good for everyone to understand that even those without an interlock can be affected by the new law.

A California IID is a responsibility and a privilege.

First, you must always ensure you’re sober before trying to drive or face additional consequences for your drunk driving conviction. But, there’s always more, especially when you consider that you may not be the only person who has to drive your car. There are a few situations where you might have to let someone else blow into your breathalyzer. Just remember that the person needs to be sober, or you could still be on the hook for another drunk driving incident.

• If your friend or family member needs to drive your car, they can blow into your breathalyzer just like you do. Make sure they understand the process so that an accurate reading is registered, as well as the process for a rolling re-test.
• A mechanic working on your car may have to blow into your breathalyzer for obvious reasons. You can always opt to stay at the service or repair center to submit the sample yourself, or, you can document the appointment and let your reporting agency know, just in case of any test failures or problems.
• Valet parking attendants will have to blow into your breathalyzer, so be sure they understand and are sober before you leave your vehicle.
• If you’re showing your car breathalyzer to friends and they want to check it out, just know that any test performed is saved in the device data. Friends don’t let friends blow into their breathalyzer if they’ve been drinking.

The only reason to not let another person blow into your California IID is that you’re drunk and still trying to drive. A breath sample from a sober person may get your vehicle to start, but, either you’ll be caught during a rolling re-test or by the camera on your device (if it is so equipped). Plus, you’re drinking and driving again, and you should remember how that ended the last time. Car breathalyzers can be used by anyone, as long as they haven’t been drinking, and are a way to ensure responsible drinking by everyone – not just drunk driving offenders.