Breathalyzers Behind the Wheel: The Role of Ignition Interlock Devices

 Posted on July 29, 2016 in DUI Defense

The moment you are pulled over under the suspicion of drinking and driving, your whole world can be turned upside down. If you have in fact been drinking and driving, the moment the law enforcement officer collects evidence against you, you are at risk for losing your license, serving jail time, paying hefty fines, and possibly blemishing your future career options, as DUI convictions can often ruin your eligibility for certain jobs.

The BAIID Consequence

Along with having your license suspended, paying fines, and serving possible jail time, you may also face another serious restriction as you reclaim your driving privileges. Should you decide to submit to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test upon your arrest and are found guilty of driving while intoxicated, you will likely be required to have a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) installed in your vehicle if you are eligible for driving relief. The BAIID installation is required for a set period of time determined by the court, depending on the nature of your conviction, and you are required by law to utilize it any time you get behind the wheel.

The Purpose of the BAIID

Monitoring - Just as law enforcement utilizes a BAC test to determine your sobriety, a BAIID is used to monitor your blood alcohol level on a continual basis. The primary purpose of ignition interlock devices is to monitor a driver’s blood alcohol content in order to prevent them from being able to operate a car while intoxicated. The device will not allow the driver’s vehicle to start if a BAC of 0.025 or more is detected.

To start the car, the driver must blow into the device for the machine to detect a reading. Along with a breath sample upon ignition, the device will require additional samples at random intervals throughout the course of the drive. The state of Illinois also requires a camera unit installation in tandem with the BAIID device to capture a proper image of the driver when they take their breath test. If there is no trace of alcohol in the driver’s system, the car will start without a problem.

Repeat Offense Prevention - All first-time DUI offenders who wish to be granted driving relief during the period of statutory summary suspension are required to have a BAIID installed in their car. But, this requirement is more than just a consequence or penalty for a poor choice. It is also more than just a tool to monitor a driver’s actions following a DUI offense. One-third out of over 1.4 million DUI arrests are repeat offenders, which means the need for reduced recidivism rates is extremely important. Despite the fact that drunk drivers can and often do drive someone else’s car, in general, BAIID devices are proven to help reduce repeat offenses.

Contact Our Chicago DUI Attorneys

If you have been arrested due to the suspicion of driving under the influence, it is vital you speak with an experienced Chicago DUI defense attorney. Call the Luisi Legal Group today at 773-276-5541 for a free initial consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/BAIID/baiid.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/31/opinion/31cook.html?_r=0

http://www.isp.state.il.us/traffic/drnkdriving.cfm