Drunk driving offenses are some of the most common crimes that occur in Pennsylvania. Some people underestimate how much they have had to drink, while others overestimate their driving skills and assume they won’t be in any real danger if they drive home from a party or a bar.
Unfortunately, data about criminal offenses makes it clear that someone arrested for a first-time driving under the influence (DUI) offense could very well end up arrested again.
The ignition interlock device (IID) program helps drivers who have a drunk driving offense on their record establish a pattern of better driving decisions.
How the IID program works
People arrested with a very high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or who have prior DUI charges on their records will likely need to install an IID if they plead guilty or are convicted a second time. A driver subject to an IID requirement will have to pay to install a special device in their vehicle. They will then have to routinely present the vehicle for inspection, maintenance and calibration.
Generally speaking, someone subject to an IID requirement can only lawfully drive a vehicle that has an IID installed. If they get caught driving another vehicle, they could face criminal penalties. Every time they start the vehicle, they will need to perform a breath test to establish that their BAC is under the legal limit. Those who fail the test will not be able to start their vehicle.
The results of each test are available for the company maintaining the device and the courts to review. Eventually, they can remove the IID from their vehicle and upgrade to a standard license that allows them to drive any vehicle.
An IID could help you
Losing your license entirely can be a massive inconvenience. While needing to pay for a device that monitors your alcohol consumption before you drive may be frustrating, it is certainly a better alternative than driving under the influence or depending on public transportation or rideshare services every time you need to get to work or a doctor’s appointment.
Learning more about the penalties for DUI charges in Pennsylvania can help those weighing their options following an arrest.
