Having an ignition interlock (car breathalyzer) requirement is a big responsibility. You have to make sure that you know how to use the device and that you don’t have anything else go wrong while you’re rebuilding your post-DUI life. In West Virginia, the state’s Alcohol Test and Lock Program makes it easy for you to see where you could make a mistake with your interlock. When you apply for that program, in fact, you are agreeing to the consequences for any West Virginia interlock violations you may acquire.
Specifically, those West Virginia interlock violations include:
- Not maintaining or calibrating your device with your ignition interlock service provider.
- Driving a vehicle that isn’t interlock-equipped.
- Tampering with your device.
- Attempting to drive with any amount of alcohol in your breath sample.
- Failing rolling re-tests.
- Not enrolling in, completing or withdrawing from the Alcohol Test and Lock Program.
In other words, if you have an ignition interlock requirement in West Virginia, you need to make sure you’re always at your service appointments and only driving your interlock-equipped vehicle if you are sober. You need to go through the Alcohol Test and Lock Program, too. In exchange for your compliance, you get to restore your freedom to drive a lot faster and easier than without the interlock. On the other hand, if you have any West Virginia interlock violations, you will be withdrawn from the program and will not be able to legally drive.
West Virginia has the right idea when it comes to second chances after a DUI. The responsibility lands on the shoulders of the offender to remain sober when driving, so they can maintain job and family obligations. Without any interlock violations, a DUI offender can look forward to a swift recovery and quick road to rehabilitation without worrying about any future drunk driving mistakes.