Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and can cause serious damage, injury, and even death. Those who are convicted of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Tennessee will be required to use an ignition interlock device (IID) for a period to prevent them from getting behind the wheel while drunk. An IID can be a costly burden so work with a Memphis DUI defense lawyer to begin building your case today.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device?
An ignition interlock device is a small machine that consists of a breath alcohol analyzer and a wire cord. The wire connects the breathalyzer to the car’s ignition system and prevents the vehicle’s ignition from starting unless an alcohol-free breath sample is given.
Every time the driver wants to operate the vehicle they must first blow into the breathalyzer. If their blood alcohol content exceeds the maximum limit the car will not start. However, if there is no detectable alcohol then the engine will turn on. IIDs generally also have a camera that can record who is taking the breath test. This can be important to assess the visual state of the driver and to protect the driver if someone else attempts to operate the vehicle while under the influence.
Who is Required to Use an Ignition Interlock Device?
In Tennessee, anyone who is convicted of a DUI will be required to install an ignition interlock device. They will have to use one for either 365 days or the length of the license revocation period, whichever is longer. Offenders must have the device installed within 10 days of their release on bail.
What is the Calibration Setting for an IID in TN?
Every state has different requirements for the maximum amount of alcohol that can be present in a breath sample for an IID. Because IID users have previous drunk driving offenses one may assume that the breathalyzer must read a 0.00 in order for the car to start. However, this is unrealistic.
Some commonplace food or beverages contain negligible amounts of alcohol that do not impair a person’s ability to safely operate a vehicle but may show up on the test. Mouthwash, cold medicine, vanilla extract, inhalers, oral gels, and more can cause false positives. For this reason, Tennessee law states that IIDs must be calibrated to register anything over 0.02 as a failing breath sample.
How Much Does it Cost?
No one case is alike so the cost of having an ignition interlock device varies depending on several factors. There are typically three main costs, installation, monthly fees, and removal. These costs will depend on the company you choose to work with, the make and model of your vehicle, and the length of time you are required to use an IID.
Standard costs range from $100 to $200 for installation and removal and monthly fees and maintenance can run anywhere from $70 to $140.
The costs can be significant so speak to a lawyer to begin building a defense and acquire information on your legal rights and options.
