Car Breathalyzer Devices, also referred to as Breath Alcohol Ignition interlock Devices (BAIIDs or IIDs), are used by states to help address the problems with driving under the influence (DUI). States require IIDs in DUI cases to help ensure that individuals who are under the influence of alcohol are not able to drive on public roadways and present a threat to the general public.
The installation and maintenance of an IID is a requirement of your court or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), usually as a result of drinking and driving. Driving is a privilege, and driving safely every time is your responsibility. Instead of revoking your license or jail time, an ignition interlock allows you to continue to drive safely and legally and gives you the opportunity to show that you can do so responsibly and not drink and drive. If you fail to install and maintain the IID as required by your jurisdiction, you may have your driving privileges revoked or face additional fines and jail time.
No, state laws require you to only operate vehicles that are equipped with IIDs. The only exception to this may be if you need to operate an employer-owned vehicle as part of your normal job duties. Your state may allow you to get a waiver to operate the employer-owned vehicle, but you are required to have the waiver with you at all times while operating the employer-owned vehicle.
You are required to pay any and all costs associated with the IID. If you are unable to pay the fees due to extreme financial hardship, check to see if your state offers any type of financial hardship support.
No, IIDs are about the size of a cell phone and are easily stored next to the driver without interfering with the operation of the vehicle.
While you are driving the vehicle, the device requires you to submit random breath samples. The IID is alerting you to submit a breath sample.
The device may have detected alcohol in your breath sample. Many items we ingest contain very small amounts of alcohol that will be picked up by the device. Rinse your mouth with water and take another test. If you have passed a breath test and your vehicle will not start, your vehicle may be in the permanent lockout mode or the device may be malfunctioning. Call your service provider to have the device serviced and reset.