True or False: Anyone Can Use Your Car Breathalyzer

If you have a car breathalyzer or ignition interlock as a result of a drunk driving conviction, you are already well aware of how the device works. When the device was installed, your ignition interlock service provider trained you how to properly use the device, including:

• The right way to blow or “hum” into the device for an accurate blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading.
• What to expect when starting up your vehicle and during the “rolling re-tests” required by the device.
• What the tones and lights on the device mean, and what to do in each situation, as they arise.
• The importance of attending your car breathalyzer service appointments.
• The consequences of drinking and attempting to drive your vehicle, or trying to illegally drive without an interlock.

After your ignition interlock training, you were considered an expert with your device, and you have since made the best of an “okay” situation. Now, your friend wants to borrow your car, even knowing he or she has to use your car breathalyzer in the same manner that you do. What do you do?

You say yes to your friend.

Anyone can use your car breathalyzer, as long as they follow the same procedures and rules as you do. The device does not discriminate against another person’s “hum,” just a “hum” that provides a BAC sample that is too high. However, as easy as that sounds, you are still ultimately responsible for each and every BAC reading that your car breathalyzer records. That means that if your friend does exceed the BAC limit during the start-up phase, or during any “rolling re-test,” you will face the consequences for their actions. Also, remember, that even though your friend can USE your device, they cannot use it FOR you – so, no asking them to take the test so you can drive.

Anyone who is sober and trained properly can use your car breathalyzer, giving you another way to maintain a “normal” life, even after a drunk driving conviction.