Ignition Interlock Device Laws By State
Ignition Interlock Device Laws By State
Ignition interlock devices (IIDs) are court-ordered devices that prevent a vehicle from starting if the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) is above a preset level. All 50 states and the District of Columbia have IID laws, but the specific requirements vary from state to state. Some states require IIDs for all DUI offenders, while others only require them for repeat offenders or those with a high BAC. The length of time that a person must use an IID also varies from state to state, ranging from a few months to several years.
Ignition Interlock Device Laws By State
In the United States, all 50 states and the District of Columbia have laws that require convicted drunk drivers to install ignition interlock devices (IIDs) in their vehicles. These devices prevent a vehicle from starting if the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) is above a certain level. IID laws vary from state to state, but they all share the goal of reducing drunk driving and saving lives.
How IID Laws Work
IID laws typically require convicted drunk drivers to install an IID in their vehicle for a period of time, which can range from a few months to several years. The IID is connected to the vehicle's ignition system and prevents the engine from starting if the driver's BAC is above a certain level. The driver must blow into the IID before starting the vehicle, and if their BAC is too high, the vehicle will not start. IIDs also record the driver's BAC levels and can be used to track compliance with the law.
The Effectiveness of IID Laws
IID laws have been shown to be effective in reducing drunk driving and saving lives. Studies have found that IID laws reduce recidivism rates among convicted drunk drivers by up to 60%. They also reduce the number of alcohol-related crashes and fatalities. In addition, IID laws have been shown to be cost-effective, as they save money in terms of reduced healthcare costs, criminal justice costs, and lost productivity.
