Ignition Interlock
Ignition Interlock Devices are becoming more and more widespread in DUI/DWI cases in Maryland and throughout the United States. The devices operate in a similar fashion to breathalyzers, and are installed in vehicles under certain circumstances in DUI/DWI cases. In order to start the ignition of a vehicle fitted with an Ignition Interlock Device, a driver must breathe into the device. If there is any alcohol detected on the driver’s breath, the vehicle will not start.
The devices are equipped to require random testing while the vehicle is being operated, in order to prevent a sober person from “tricking” the device for a friend to start the vehicle and enabling an intoxicated person to drive the car. Should the driver fail to provide a breath sample, the vehicle will not power off, as this could potentially create a hazardous situation. Rather, the device will log the refusal or result and sound an alarm until the vehicle is shut off.
If you are ordered or opt to comply with an Ignition Interlock program in Maryland to retain your driving privileges, you will be responsible for all costs related to the device while it is installed in your vehicle. Program participants must report to a service provider monthly for calibration. At that time, the device’s data logger will be read and information regarding the date, time and alcohol level of each transaction will be recorded. Suspected efforts to disable the device as well as random retest compliance data will be reported to the MVA after each hearing.
Drivers who have an installed Ignition Interlock device in Maryland must start their vehicles 50 times in a 30 day period to avoid a “low starts violation.” If you are ill, carpooling or using your vehicle less than the standard 50 times per month, the Maryland MVA advises you write and explain the reason for the low number of starts during a given month.
For every month in which a violation is recorded, the required period for Ignition Interlock Device installation in Maryland will be increased by a month. After four violations, a driver will be terminated from the program and the original license suspension or revocation will occur.
If you have been assigned or are considering participating in a Maryland Ignition Interlock Device program, a Maryland DUI lawyer can explain the benefits and restrictions to you so you can ensure compliance and successful completion of the program.
The devices are equipped to require random testing while the vehicle is being operated, in order to prevent a sober person from “tricking” the device for a friend to start the vehicle and enabling an intoxicated person to drive the car. Should the driver fail to provide a breath sample, the vehicle will not power off, as this could potentially create a hazardous situation. Rather, the device will log the refusal or result and sound an alarm until the vehicle is shut off.
If you are ordered or opt to comply with an Ignition Interlock program in Maryland to retain your driving privileges, you will be responsible for all costs related to the device while it is installed in your vehicle. Program participants must report to a service provider monthly for calibration. At that time, the device’s data logger will be read and information regarding the date, time and alcohol level of each transaction will be recorded. Suspected efforts to disable the device as well as random retest compliance data will be reported to the MVA after each hearing.
Drivers who have an installed Ignition Interlock device in Maryland must start their vehicles 50 times in a 30 day period to avoid a “low starts violation.” If you are ill, carpooling or using your vehicle less than the standard 50 times per month, the Maryland MVA advises you write and explain the reason for the low number of starts during a given month.
For every month in which a violation is recorded, the required period for Ignition Interlock Device installation in Maryland will be increased by a month. After four violations, a driver will be terminated from the program and the original license suspension or revocation will occur.
If you have been assigned or are considering participating in a Maryland Ignition Interlock Device program, a Maryland DUI lawyer can explain the benefits and restrictions to you so you can ensure compliance and successful completion of the program.
