All DUI offenders in the state of Arizona are typically ordered to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles as part of their sentence. But what exactly is an ignition interlock device and how does a person go about getting the device installed in a vehicle?
The Arizona Department of Transportation reports that the ignition interlock is a breath analyzing device that is slightly larger than a cell phone. The device is wired to the vehicle's ignition and installed on the vehicle dashboard. With an ignition interlock, the driver must first exhale into the device before starting the car. If the interlock detects alcohol on the driver's breath, the engine won't start.
The ignition interlock devices in vehicles will also randomly require the driver to provide breath samples once the ignition has already been turned on in order to ensure that the driver does not consume alcohol while behind the wheel. If no breath sample is provided or if the device detects alcohol on the driver's breath, the driver will be warned and an alarm will sound until the ignition is turned off.
Only companies authorized by the state may install ignition interlock devices in the vehicles of DUI offenders. Visit www.azdot.gov/mvd/driver/CertifiedInstallers.asp for a list of ignition interlock manufacturers and installers in Arizona. Once the ignition interlock device is installed in a vehicle, the device must be calibrated and inspected by a certified installer every 30 days for the first three months and then every other month for the duration of installation requirement. Contact an Arizona DUI attorney for more information on ignition interlock requirements.
Related Resources:
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Ignition Interlock Devices (FindLaw)
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Find An Arizona DUI Attorney (FindLaw)
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Arizona BAC Consent: Easy as ABC? (FindLaw's KnowledgeBase)
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