Ignition Interlock Devices (IID) for DUI

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Our Tampa DUI Lawyers Explain The Nitty-Gritty of Ignition Interlock Devices

Driving while intoxicated can put your life and that of other motorists at risk of severe injuries and even death. That’s why Florida takes driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) very seriously. Individuals who are convicted of DUI will typically face severe consequences for their actions. In addition to jail terms and fines, one of the penalties for DUI is installing an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle.

An ignition interlock device is a small electronic instrument that is wired to a car’s ignition system. A portable alcohol monitoring device, this machine helps to gauge a motorist’s blood alcohol content (BAC). It also prevents the driver from using the vehicle if their BAC indicates alcohol impairment.

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Tampa, you should seek quality legal representation from our experienced DUI attorneys immediately. Our DUI attorneys understand the consequences of a DUI conviction and will work diligently to help you escape one.

Call 813-281-2897 to schedule a free consultation with us today.

 

How Does The Ignition Interlock Device Work?

Ignition Interlock Device Usage for DUI in Florida

An IID is like a breathalyzer that is connected to your automobile’s ignition. As we mentioned already, it measures your BAC to determine whether you’ve been drinking too much.

To use the ignition interlock device, you have to blow or breathe into it. It then analyzes your breath to check your level of impairment. If you get a BAC reading above the predetermined threshold, your car’s engine won’t start.

You’ll also be subjected to random tests when the vehicle is in operation to ensure that you aren’t drinking and driving. This is called a rolling retest and is often required 5 minutes into your driving and a couple of times after. You’ll typically have to take your rolling retests and pass them within three minutes from the time you receive the signal. Otherwise, you’ll have to pull over and turn your vehicle’s engine off.

Note that it is very difficult to circumvent an IID. Besides the rolling retests, ignition interlock devices come with numerous anti-circumvention features that make them tamper-proof. They include power disconnect reading, humidity reading, and humming while blowing.

How Long Will My IID Installation Last in Florida?

Essential Details about Florida’s Ignition Interlock Device Program

Generally, first-time DUI offenders aren’t required to install IIDs in their vehicles. However, the court may order them to do so on rare occasions. These include cases where there was a minor in the vehicle, or their BAC exceeded 0.15. In such circumstances, they’ll be required to install an IID for at least 6 months.

For a second conviction, the duration for IID installation is 1 year. If there are aggravating circumstances, it increases to 2 years. Third convictions involve a minimum time frame of 2 years, while fourth and subsequent convictions carry a minimum of 5 years of IID installation.

Why Do I Need A Florida Attorney on The Ignition Interlock Device?

Our DUI Defense Attorneys Will Improve Your Chances of Favorable Outcomes

Having an IID installed in your vehicle can be as embarrassing as it is inconvenient. First, you wouldn’t be able to get into your vehicle and drive off immediately as other motorists do. Instead, you’ll have to take some minutes to blow into the machine and must have a good reading before you drive. Worse still, you can’t do this discreetly, so every passenger in your vehicle will notice your “little breathing exercise.”

Second, it costs a lot of money to use an IID in Florida. Apart from purchasing the device, you’ll also have to pay for the installation. There are also monthly monitoring and calibration fees in addition to a $100 refundable initial deposit. Sometimes, convicted individuals find it difficult to financially commit to installing an IID.

For these reasons, it’s important to fight a mandatory IID installation with everything you’ve got. That’s where having our formidable DUI defense attorneys comes in handy. The DUI defense lawyers at Taracks & Associates will do everything possible to help you avoid the penalties associated with DUI convictions. These include:

  • Evaluating your case and explaining your charges
  • Offering you sound legal advice
  • Detailing your legal options
  • Negotiating with the prosecution to reduce your charges
  • Defending your charges in court by developing appropriate defense strategies, disputing evidence against you, and providing evidence in your favor
  • Providing you with moral support.

At Taracks & Associates, our legal team includes a former prosecutor. This means that we understand how to sway the other side in your favor. Contact us today to get started on your case.

 

FAQs

Get Answers to All Your Questions Regarding The Ignition Interlock Program in Florida

We encourage our DUI clients to ask as many questions as they wish, to ensure that they understand their situation to the fullest. These are some of the most recurrent ones we’ve received over the years:

Should I Voluntarily Install An IID?

There are some occasions when our attorneys may advise you to install an interlock device voluntarily. A good example is when you wish to enroll in a DUI diversion program. Voluntarily installing an ignition interlock device may also increase your chances of resolving your case favorably.

What If Someone Else Uses My Vehicle after IID Installation?

Other people can drive your vehicle after you install an ignition interlock device. However, this means that they’ll also have to use the IID to start and continue operating your automobile. Consequently, you should ensure that whoever uses your car is ready to abide by the same rules you’re bound to.

What Amounts To An IID Violation in Florida? 

You can violate your mandatory IID in many ways. These include having up to two breath tests above the set BAC before starting your vehicle and missing your rolling retests. Tampering with the machine in any way will also amount to an IID violation.

What Happens If I Violate My Ignition Interlock Device in Florida?

Ignition interlock device violations in Florida carry steep penalties. For example, if you were on probation when you violated your IID, you may be at risk of a jail term. Depending on your unique circumstances, IID violations can result in a suspended driver’s license, loss of license, and fines.

Do you have more questions regarding IIDs in Florida? Speak to our skilled attorneys today at 813-281-2897.

 

Our DUI Defense Attorneys at Taracks & Associates Can Help

We Will Fight to Protect Your Best Interests in Your DUI Case

Florida’s ignition interlock program is typically one of the penalties for severe DUI convictions. However, it can also be an effective strategy to reduce the time you’d have to wait for a hardship license. Regardless of your case’s specifics, our attorneys will fight to ensure that you enjoy the best possible outcomes.

Our competent criminal defense lawyers have an in-depth understanding of Florida’s DUI process. We’ll effectively utilize our wealth of experience to your full advantage. From advocating for your rights to providing sound legal advice, we’ll stand solidly behind you all the way.

Contact us for a free case review now by dialing 813-281-2897.

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