What are some common ignition interlock device myths?

You may have to get an ignition interlock device (IID) if you’ve been arrested and convicted for a DUI. These devices come with many myths. For instance, some people believe there are ways to trick the devices to help them drive even though they’re intoxicated.

Many of the myths simply aren’t true. One common IID myth is that you can fail a test because of something you’ve just eaten or had to drink. The truth is that you could trigger a false positive in some very specific cases, like if you’ve just rinsed your mouth with mouthwash, but in most cases, a false positive is unlikely. To prevent accidentally getting a false positive, make sure to rinse your mouth out with water, wait 15 minutes after a meal to drive and avoid using breath sprays and rinses containing alcohol.

Another myth is that you could share the IID with another person, allowing you to potentially drive drunk. It doesn’t work that way. It’s illegal to let someone else blow into the device for you if they aren’t driving. Most IIDs also have a camera, allowing a photo to be taken of the driver at the time of the test. During a rolling retest, a photo may be taken again. Additionally, it’s hard to have a passenger take a rolling retest for you. If you get caught breaking the law on the IID’s camera, you could face jail time or other penalties. It’s not worth the risk.

These are just a couple myths you may have heard before. If you have an IID, follow the rules. It’s there for your safety.

Source: Ignition Interlock Info, “Ignition interlock device facts vs. myths,” accessed Dec. 28, 2017