An ignition interlock device keeps you behind the wheel

After a conviction for a DUI, one thing you may need to use is an ignition interlock device. An ignition interlock device, also called an IID, stops your vehicle from starting up if you’ve had too much alcohol to drink. The device saves lives and restricts drunk drivers, making it a popular option after a DUI is confirmed.

If you have to use an IID, you should understand how it works. An IID is installed into your vehicle. It has a cord that connects to the ignition system and has a handheld unit along with a mouthpiece. When you want to start your vehicle, you have to blow air into the mouthpiece. If the test reads that you have a blood alcohol concentration over 0.08 percent, then you’ll be unable to start the vehicle. If you’re below the legal limit, you’ll be able to start the car and drive.

If you turn in a breath sample that is over the limit, don’t fret. You can take the test again until you blow into the machine with a breath sample under the legal limit. The time you have to wait between each test varies based on the number of times you’ve failed the test. Until you pass the test, the vehicle will not turn on.

Before you take the test, make sure you wash out your mouth with water. Wait several minutes after using mouthwash before you try to start your vehicle, since mouthwash can cause a false positive. If you fail the test, you may need to wait a period of time before retaking it.

Fortunately, this device keeps you on the road, although it is sometimes hindering. After a DUI, an IID is an integral part of keeping you behind the wheel.

Source: Intoxalock, “How to pass a breathalyzer test,” accessed Jan. 19, 2018