Ignition Interlock Devices Mandatory for Repeat Drunk Drivers

Connecticut recently became the 15th state to pass legislation requiring repeat drunk driving offenders to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles. The law goes into effect on January 1, 2012, and mandates that individuals convicted of a second offense of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, vehicular manslaughter, or vehicular assault, are only allowed to drive with an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle.

The ignition interlock device, or IID, contains one part for the driver to blow into, and is connected to small computer installed under the dashboard. The computer prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the person's breath. The computer also calls out random retests while the driver is driving to make sure a driver doesn't drink while he's out on the road. The results from the information can be relayed electronically from the computer directly to the probation officer.

Part of the purpose behind the IID is to modify the behavior of repeat drunk driving offenders. According to the director of Mothers Against Drunk Driving in Connecticut, statistics reveal that up to 75 percent of repeat drunk driving offenders were still driving after their licenses had been suspended.

The interlock device is leased to drivers by vendors for around $100 per month. Drivers must return to the installer to have the device calibrated every 60 days or their license will be suspended for not adhering to the program.

Additionally, a driver's license will also be suspended if he or she is convicted of attempting to bypass the requirements of the IID by tampering with the device, removing the device, or allowing someone else to blow into the device. Individuals who are required to have the interlock devices and drive vehicles without an IID will also have their licenses suspended.