Distracted driving continues to cause more accidents each year, whether from munching on snacks, checking a GPS direction or texting a friend. Drivers’ education programs tell us to keep both hands on the wheel when driving, and always be aware of our surroundings, but, tell that to the people putting on makeup, reading a book or checking Facebook while driving. A person with an ignition interlock device (IID) may be more aware of the dangers of driving than the average person (with good reason) which is why a “rolling re-test” can be scary: these devices demand a driver’s attention while driving to ensure sobriety, becoming a distraction from the road and potentially encouraging another traffic incident, right?
Wrong.
Ignition interlock devices require a drunk driving offender to perform a “rolling re-test” to ensure the sobriety of the driver, and, these tests can be done to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Safety Tips for “Rolling Re-tests” and Ignition Interlock Devices:
- Always be sure your car breathalyzer or ignition interlock device is installed and maintained by a reputable IID service provider who can demonstrate the process and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
- When prompted for a “rolling re-test,” be aware of your surroundings and the flow of traffic in order to safely blow into the device while driving.
- If performing a “rolling re-test” in traffic is deemed too dangerous, you should pull to the side of the road or find a safe place to perform the breath test within two minutes (on average).
- Once a clean breath sample has been submitted, continue to drive safely and obey all traffic laws.
Safety on the road is the primary reason for ignition interlock devices, so, an IID can certainly be used without creating an unsafe driving situation for everyone. Distracted driving problems can safely be solved through common sense, whether the distraction is a picture of kittens, a phone call from a friend or the requirements of an IID.